The molecular field approximation

In summary, the molecular field approximation is a theoretical method used to study the behavior of systems of interacting particles. It is commonly used in various fields to predict the properties of complex systems, but has limitations as it does not account for fluctuations or correlations between particles and assumes all particles are identical. It differs from other theoretical methods by treating all particles as if they were in a uniform field. However, it is most accurate for systems with a large number of particles and weak interactions and may not be applicable for systems at extreme conditions.
  • #1
matematikuvol
192
0
MFA

[tex]\hat{A}\hat{B}\approx \hat{A}\langle\hat{B}\rangle+\hat{B}\langle\hat{A}\rangle-\langle\hat{A}\rangle\langle\hat{B}\rangle[/tex]

What this mean physically? What we neglect here?

If I calculate Neel temperature using this method [tex]T_N^{MFA}[/tex] and using RPA method [tex]T_N^{RPA}[/tex] is there some relation between those temperatures?
 
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  • #2
mean-field approximation method
 
  • #3
Perhaps a natural way to see the decomposition is if A and B are fluctuations around some mean, i.e. <A> = <B> = 0. Then you just have AB ~ 0, i.e. you are neglecting correlated fluctuations in A and B.
 

1. What is the molecular field approximation?

The molecular field approximation is a theoretical method used in statistical mechanics to describe the behavior of a system of interacting particles. It assumes that each particle is influenced by the average molecular field created by all other particles in the system.

2. How is the molecular field approximation used in practical applications?

The molecular field approximation is used in various fields such as chemistry, physics, and materials science to predict the properties of complex systems. It is commonly used to study the behavior of gases, liquids, and solids under different conditions.

3. What are the limitations of the molecular field approximation?

The molecular field approximation is based on simplifying assumptions and does not take into account the effects of fluctuations or correlations between particles. It also assumes that all particles in the system are identical, which may not always be the case.

4. How does the molecular field approximation differ from other theoretical methods?

The molecular field approximation is a mean-field theory, meaning it treats all particles in the system as if they were in a uniform field. Other methods, such as Monte Carlo simulations and molecular dynamics, take into account the individual interactions between particles.

5. Can the molecular field approximation be used for all types of systems?

No, the molecular field approximation is most accurate for systems with a large number of particles and weak interactions. It becomes less accurate for systems with fewer particles or strong interactions, and may not be applicable at all for systems at extreme conditions, such as high pressures or temperatures.

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