Apply kinetic theory to solids and liquids?

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SUMMARY

The kinetic theory, traditionally applied to gases, can also be utilized to explain the properties of solids and liquids, despite its foundational postulate that particles exert no forces on each other. This discussion highlights the necessity of adapting the kinetic theory to account for inter-particle forces in solids and liquids, as demonstrated by the limitations of the free electron theory in accurately describing real materials. The conversation emphasizes that while the kinetic theory provides a starting point for understanding particle behavior, it must be modified to encompass the complexities of solid and liquid states.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic theory principles
  • Familiarity with solid-state physics
  • Knowledge of transport theory in materials science
  • Basic concepts of quantum mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research modifications to kinetic theory for solids and liquids
  • Explore the limitations of the free electron theory in real materials
  • Study transport theory applications in solid-state physics
  • Investigate the role of inter-particle forces in material properties
USEFUL FOR

Chemists, physicists, materials scientists, and students seeking to deepen their understanding of the kinetic theory and its applications beyond gases.

pivoxa15
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My chemistry textbook tries to explain the properties of solids and liquids with the kinetic theory. Is this not good? Should only gases be explained by the kinetic theory since one of the postulates in this theory is that particles exert no forces on each other. The book had to disable this axiom when explaining solids and liquids and said that the forces increase the closer the particles are. But cancelling an axiom is not good or improper isn't it? But theory should be used to explain solids and liquids in general?
 
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The assumption (I wouldn't call it an axiom) that the particles do not interact is just a starting point for learning how things really work. For example the free electron theory in metals does not work too well with real materials but it's easy to exctract some quantitatively correct results out of it to get one started in learning about metals.
 
I'd say "transport theory" is not only about "kinetic theory of gases". Yes, the simple models of noninteracting quantum gases could provide qualitative behavior, since the general eqns from transport theory (either semiclassical or purely quantum) cannot be solved for solids, nor liquids.

Daniel.
 

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