  The dynamics of first-order phase transitions in strongly coupled systems are
relevant in a variety of systems, from heavy ion collisions to the early
universe. Holographic theories can be used to model these systems, with
fluctuations usually suppressed. In this case the system can come close to a
spinodal point where theory and experiments indicate that the the behaviour
should be similar to a critical point of a second-order phase transition. We
study this question using a simple holographic model and confirm that there is
critical slowing down and scaling behaviour close to the spinodal point, with
precise quantitative estimates. In addition, we determine the start of the
scaling regime for the breakdown of quasistatic evolution when the temperature
of a thermal bath is slowly decreased across the transition. We also extend the
analysis to the dynamics of second-order phase transitions and strong
crossovers.
