At any real temperature (one that is above absolute zero) all the components of the crystal are in motion, but all remain near
their equilibrium positions.9
The atomic nuclei in this array can undergo different types of oscillations around
their equilibrium positions, the so - called lattice vibrations or phonons.
For these types of radiative climate forcings the atmospheric temperature profile will be shifted basically unchanged to its new
equilibrium position.
As a consequence of chemical potential and incoming SW radiation the observed mix is far from
an equilibrium position.
The difference between a slow transition and a fast transition to a new
equilibrium position has at least two important effects: the rate of sea - level rise due to the speed at which ice sheets melt, and carbon - cycle feedback effects including a melting Arctic permafrost and potential destabilization of oceanic methane hydrates.
When a small water parcel is displaced from
its equilibrium position, it will return either downwards due to gravity or upwards due to buoyancy.
You have
an equilibrium position.
Thus, continued retreat can lead to
an equilibrium position.