Chemical Reactions as Phase Transitions

格里尔博士计划进行实验测量，以测试最初为磁相变开发的统计力学模型在平衡聚合反应情况下的适用性。具体来说，她将测试硫和各种所谓的活性聚合物（某些表现出可逆聚合的有机分子）的相平衡、热容量、密度和粘度理论的预测。她还计划研究这些聚合过程的动力学，以便与其他工作人员正在进行的计算机模拟进行比较。科学界对所谓的活聚合物体系的普遍兴趣是广泛的。它包括分析理论、计算机模拟和格里尔博士正在进行的实验室实验。她的工作有望加强现代相变理论与化学动力学和反应性之间的知识联系。它作为科学事业本质的一个杰出范例是重要的：寻求物质世界最普遍的范式。

Dr. Greer plans experimental measurements to test the applicability of statistical mechanical models originally developed for magnetic phase transitions to cases of equilibrium polymerization reactions. In particular, she will test the predictions of the theory for the phase equilibria, the heat capacity, the density, and the viscosity, of sulfur and of various so-called living polymers (certain organic molecules which show reversible polymerization). She also plans to study the kinetics of these polymerization processes for comparison with computer simulations being done by other workers. The scientific interest in the general class of so-called living polymer systems is widespread. It includes analytical theory, computer simulations, and laboratory experiments such as Dr. Greer is carrying out. Her work promises to strengthen the intellectual linkages between modern phase transition theory and chemical kinetics and reactivity. It is important as an outstanding example of the essence of the scientific enterprise: the seeking of the most general paradigm of the physical world.