Local thermodynamic equilibrium

{
  "id": "MLC-T-MET-007018",
  "term": "Local thermodynamic equilibrium",
  "field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
  "definition": "A state within a small volume of a gas where thermodynamic equilibrium exists, even if the gas as a whole is not in global equilibrium. This means that within that small volume, temperature, pressure, and chemical composition are well-defined, and energy exchange processes are rapid enough to maintain equilibrium. It is a common assumption in radiative transfer calculations within the atmosphere.",
  "abbreviation": "LTE",
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/local-thermodynamic-equilibrium/"
}