Fluctuation-dissipation theorems for systems in non-thermal equilibrium and applications

The linear response theory of systems obeying Fokker-Planck equations is discussed under the assumption that the principle of detailed balance is satisfied. This theory is used to obtain fluctuation-dissipation theorems for systems in a non-thermal equilibrium state corresponding to the steady state solution of the Fokker-Planck equation. Some of the aspects of the threshold region of a single mode laser (without detuning) are discussed. In particular it is shown that, contrary to the results established recently by others, the “linear susceptibility” χ(Ω) is acontinuous function of the pump parameterp. The results are then specialized to Gaussian Markov process in which case an alternate form of the fluctuation-dissipation theorems is also given. Finally few other generalizations of the fluctuation-dissipation theorems are also briefly discussed.