On the exact solution of a generalized Pólya process (Q541160)

Summary: There are two types of master equations in describing nonequilibrium phenomena with memory effect: (i) the memory function type and (ii) the nonstationary type. A generalized Polya process is studied within the framework of a non-stationary type master equation approach. For a transition-rate with an arbitrary time-dependent relaxation function, the exact solution of a generalized Polya process is obtained. The characteristic features of temporal variation of the solution are displayed for some typical time-dependent relaxation functions reflecting memory in the systems.