Fluctuation theorem for nonequilibrium reactions

A fluctuation theorem is derived for stochastic nonequilibrium reactions ruled by the chemical master equation. The theorem is expressed in terms of the generating and large-deviation functions characterizing the fluctuations of a quantity which measures the loss of detailed balance out of thermodynamic equilibrium. The relationship to entropy production is established and discussed. The fluctuation theorem is verified in the Schlogl model of far-from-equilibrium bistability. (C) 2004 American Institute of Physics.