Way More than the Sum of Their Parts: From Statistical to Structural Mixtures
Abstract
We show that mixtures comprising multicomponent systems typically are much more structurally complex than the sum of their parts; sometimes, infinitely more complex. We contrast this with the more familiar notion of statistical mixtures, demonstrating how statistical mixtures miss key aspects of emergent hierarchical organization. This leads us to identify a new kind of structural complexity inherent in multicomponent systems and to draw out broad consequences for system ergodicity.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Complex Systems and Dynamics
Advanced Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
Statistical Mechanics and Entropy
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Entropy
- Volume
- 28
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 111–111
- Publication date
- 16 January 2026
- Language
- EN