Canonical ensemble, entropy of a classical gas

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the entropy of a classical gas using the canonical ensemble approach, specifically through the partition function Z = 1/N!h3N∫∫d3q d3p e-βH(q,p). Participants explain that the entropy can be calculated using the formula S = -kB Σ P ln P, where P is the probability of a state derived from the partition function. Additionally, the relationship between pressure, volume, and temperature is confirmed with PV = NRT, leading to the ideal gas law. The discussion also touches on the specific heat at constant volume, Cv, in the context of non-interacting particles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of canonical ensemble and partition functions in statistical mechanics
  • Familiarity with Hamiltonian mechanics, specifically for classical gases
  • Knowledge of thermodynamic concepts such as entropy and specific heat
  • Proficiency in calculus, particularly in evaluating integrals over phase space
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the ideal gas law from statistical mechanics principles
  • Learn about the calculation of entropy using the canonical ensemble
  • Explore the implications of non-interacting particles on partition functions
  • Investigate the relationship between specific heat and temperature in classical systems
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, researchers in statistical mechanics, and anyone interested in the thermodynamic properties of classical gases.

hansbahia
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Homework Statement



I have the equation
Z=1/N!h3N∫∫d3qid3pie-βH(q,p)

How can I get the entropy from this equation assuming a classical gas of N identical, noninteracting atoms inside a volume V in equilibrium at T where it has an internal degree of freedom with energies 0 and ε
What about the specific heat at constant volume Cv?
Can anyone explain the equation?

Homework Equations



Z=1/N!h3N∫∫d3qid3pie-βH(q,p)

The Attempt at a Solution



Well I integrated the momentum and the volume separately. At the end I did get PV=NRT where I'm supposed to show that from this equation I can derive to the ideal gas law equation
∫d3q=VN=Vn/N!
∫d3p=0

However by using Z equation I can derive the entropy for this problem, how?
what about specific heat?
 
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Lets say the partition function is Z = Ʃ e-βH where the sum runs over all possible configurations (it's a path integral or whatever). Then the probability of a single state is P = e-βH / Z. The entropy is defined as usual, S = -kB Ʃ P ln P where sum is again over all states. Using this knowledge, you should be able to show that S = -β2 ∂/∂β (1/β ln Z).

As for the actual calculation, remember that the Hamiltonian of classical gas molecules is Hi = pi2/2m. Also take into account the extra degree of freedom by adding an extra factor into the Hamiltonian (and sum over all possibilities again). Finally, remember that since your particles are not interacting, the partition function should simplify into a direct product of N single particle systems
Z_1 = \int d^3p d^3q \sum_{\epsilon} \exp(-\beta H_1(p,q,\epsilon))
Z_N = \frac{1}{N!} Z_1^N
 

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