Classical statistical mechanics: dimensions of partition function

In summary, the partition function in the classical theory is an integral over phase space and is often not dimensionless. This means that the formula F = -T \log Z cannot be valid as it requires a dimensionless number for the logarithm. In the quantum theory, this problem is easily solved by dividing out by Planck's constant and acknowledging that the method of integration may not be entirely valid. In a classical setting, dimensions are taken care of by postulating a constant and dividing Z by it, although its value is not important as only changes in free energy are relevant. From a historical perspective, it is remarkable that quantum mechanics resolves this issue."
  • #1
Euclid
214
0
The partition function in the classical theory is an integral over phase space. Thus, the partition function is often not dimensionless. Then the formula
[tex] F = -T \log Z [/tex]
can no longer be valid, as you can only take the logarithm of a dimensionless number. In the quantum theory, this problem is easily taken care of by dividing out by Planck's constant and asserting that the method of integration is not really valid anyway. How are the dimensions taken care of in a classical setting?
 
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  • #2
You have to postulate some constant (like the appropriate power of Planck's constant), and then divide Z by it. But, it's value doesn't matter, because only changes in the free energy are relevant.

But, my personal opinion is that it's pretty striking that this issue is resolved by quantum mechanics.
 
  • #3
Avodyne said:
But, my personal opinion is that it's pretty striking that this issue is resolved by quantum mechanics.

I completely agree. I am wondering, from a historical perspective, what people must have thought about this.
 

1. What is classical statistical mechanics?

Classical statistical mechanics is a branch of physics that uses statistical methods to study the behavior of a large number of particles in a system. It is based on the laws of classical mechanics and thermodynamics, and provides a framework for understanding the macroscopic properties of a system from the microscopic behavior of its constituent particles.

2. What is the partition function in classical statistical mechanics?

The partition function is a mathematical function that is used to calculate the thermodynamic properties of a system in classical statistical mechanics. It is defined as the sum of all possible states of a system, each weighted by the Boltzmann factor, which takes into account the energy and temperature of the system.

3. What are the dimensions of the partition function?

The dimensions of the partition function depend on the specific system being studied. In general, it has the dimensions of energy raised to the power of the number of particles in the system.

4. How is the partition function related to the thermodynamic properties of a system?

The partition function is related to the thermodynamic properties of a system through the use of statistical mechanics equations, such as the Helmholtz free energy and the internal energy. These equations allow for the calculation of properties such as temperature, pressure, and entropy from the partition function.

5. What is the significance of the partition function in classical statistical mechanics?

The partition function is a fundamental concept in classical statistical mechanics, as it allows for the calculation of important thermodynamic properties of a system. It also provides a link between the microscopic behavior of particles and the macroscopic behavior of the system as a whole, making it a crucial tool in understanding complex physical systems.

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