The thermodynamic theory of symmetry breaking instabilities in dissipative systems is presented. Several kinetic schemes which lead to an unstable behavior are indicated. The role of diffusion is studied in a more detailed way. Moreover we devote some attention to the problem of occurrence of time order in dissipative systems. It is concluded that there exists now a firm theoretical basis for the understanding of chemical dissipative structures. It may therefore be stated that a theoretical basis also exists for the understanding of structural and functional order in chemical open systems.
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