Model Theory for Spinodal Decomposition

Abstract
A new model theory for spinodal decomposition is presented. It is based on a straight-forward generalization of the recursion relation derived previously for the quasistatic structure factor in the nonconserved case. The theory leads to a qualitative understanding of all the major features of spinodal decomposition: Equilibration of local degrees of freedom, a coarsening small-wave-number peak associated with domain formation, and scaling behavior.