Trees and forests for nonequilibrium purposes: an introduction to graphical representations

Abstract: Using local detailed balance we rewrite the Kirchhoff formula for stationary distribution of Markov jump processes in terms of a physically interpretable tree-ensemble. We use that arborification of path-space integration to derive a McLennan-tree characterization close to equilibrium, as well as to obtain response formula for the stationary distribution in the asymptotic regime of large driving. Graphical expressions of currents and of traffic are obtained, allowing the study of various asymptotic regimes. Finally, we present how the matrix-forest theorem gives a representation of quasi-potentials, as used e.g. for computing excess work and heat in nonequilibrium thermal physics. A variety of examples illustrate and explain the graph elements and constructions.