Can Atoms in Liquids Be Considered Classically?

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In summary, treating fluids classically refers to using classical mechanics, specifically Newton's laws of motion, to study the behavior and interactions of fluids. Some common examples of this approach include analyzing fluid flow in pipes, studying fluid behavior in motion, and predicting fluid movement in various scenarios. However, this method has limitations, as it does not consider the microscopic behavior of individual particles within the fluid. It differs from quantum mechanics, which is used to study particles at the atomic and subatomic level. Despite its limitations, treating fluids classically is useful in practical applications such as designing engines and predicting weather patterns, as it offers a simpler and more intuitive approach to understanding fluid behavior.
  • #1
Radiohannah
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Hey

Just wondering why atoms in liquids can be considered classically

If you compare the deBroglie wavelength with the atomic spacing, I understand that the deBroglie wavelength should be much smaller than the spacing.

But how could you show that?

If

[tex]\lambda = \frac{h}{mv}[/tex]

How would you know the velocity?
 
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  • #2
Sorry, DUH, I just thought

E=kT= 0.5mv^2

Silly me
 
  • #3
Should it be [tex]kT[/tex] or [tex]\frac{3kT}{2} [/tex] ?
 
Last edited:

What is the definition of treating fluids classically?

Treating fluids classically refers to using classical mechanics, specifically Newton's laws of motion, to study the behavior and interactions of fluids. This approach assumes that fluids are made up of individual particles that interact with each other through forces such as gravity and friction.

What are some common examples of treating fluids classically?

Some common examples of treating fluids classically include analyzing the flow of liquids and gases through pipes, studying the behavior of fluids in motion, and predicting the movement of fluids in various scenarios such as weather patterns and ocean currents.

What are the limitations of treating fluids classically?

One major limitation of treating fluids classically is that it does not take into account the microscopic behavior of individual particles within the fluid. This means that it may not accurately predict the behavior of fluids in certain situations, such as at extremely small scales or in highly turbulent flows.

How does treating fluids classically differ from quantum mechanics?

Treating fluids classically is based on classical mechanics, which describes the behavior of macroscopic objects. On the other hand, quantum mechanics is used to study the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic level. In treating fluids classically, the individual particles within the fluid are not explicitly considered, while in quantum mechanics, they are the focus of study.

How is treating fluids classically useful in practical applications?

Treating fluids classically is useful in many practical applications, such as designing efficient engines and predicting weather patterns. It provides a simpler and more intuitive approach to understanding the behavior of fluids, making it easier to analyze and predict their behavior in real-world scenarios. Additionally, it can serve as a useful approximation for more complex fluid systems, making it a valuable tool in many engineering and scientific fields.

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