Homogeneous nucleation theory

The current state of the homogeneous nucleation theory was reviewed. Basic approaches to the description of the formation of a new phase in supersatur ated systems were outlined. Current problems and lines of further developme nt of the theory were discussed. The nonequilibrium thermodynamics of the n ucleation process was constructed, and the symmetry of the diffusion tensor in the generalized space was examined. Fundamental principles of a quantum -mechanical description of the new phase formation were presented.