What are the limitations to the equipartition theorem

imagemania

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

What are the limitations to the equipartition theorem



3. The attempt at a solution

I have got this gap in my notes i am trying to fill, done some research but couldn't find anything, are there any limitations?

Andrew Mason

The theorem only works if the allowable energies are not restricted by quantum effects. Quantum effects dominate for vibrational energies of molecules at temperatures up to about 1000 K. You will notice this in the heat capacity for a diatomic gas, for example.

AM