Entropy is fundamental to describing open systems. It makes possible the distinction between non-equilibrium and equilibrium processes. The influx of negentropy is a measure of all physical and chemical processes occurring in a system. The entropy balance equation is a useful tool for the comprehensive description of an open system, as its application to planets and ecosystems illustrates. The entropy-information relationship established by the theory of information is applicable to self-organising systems provided their special features, particularly the presence or absence of memory, are taken into account.

PACS: 05.70.Ln, 87.10.+e, 96.30.−t, 89.60.+x (all) DOI: 10.1070/PU1997v040n10ABEH000291 URL: https://ufn.ru/en/articles/1997/10/d/ A1997YH86200005 Citation: Izakov M N "Self-organization and information for planets and ecosystems" Phys. Usp. 40 1035–1042 (1997) BibTexBibNote ® (generic)BibNote ® (RIS)MedlineRefWorks Оригинал: Изаков М Н «Самоорганизация и информация на планетах и в экосистемах» УФН 167 1087–1094 (1997); DOI: 10.3367/UFNr.0167.199710e.1087