Final answer:
The principle of self-organization is the tendency of complex systems to structure themselves without external control. It is observed in various areas of physics, such as crystal growth and the emergence of life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principle of self-organization refers to the tendency of complex systems to spontaneously and orderly structure themselves without external control or guidance. This principle is observed in various areas of physics, such as thermodynamics and crystal growth. For example, crystal growth is an example of self-organization where atoms arrange themselves in a regular pattern without external intervention. Self-organization is also evident in the emergence of life from a random mix of compounds in the primordial ocean.