Deriving Average Energy of an Oscillator: Thermal Radiation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the average energy (\bar{\epsilon}) of a single harmonic oscillator based on Planck's model from 1900. The oscillators have discrete energy levels defined by \epsilon_{n} = nhf, where n is a non-negative integer, and the probability distribution follows Boltzmann's law, P(\epsilon_{n}) = exp(-\epsilon_{n} / k_{B}T). The key reference recommended for further understanding is "Quantum Physics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei and Particles" by R. Eisberg and R. Resnick, which provides a comprehensive overview of these concepts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of harmonic oscillators in quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with Planck's law and energy quantization
  • Knowledge of Boltzmann distribution and statistical mechanics
  • Basic grasp of thermodynamics and temperature dependence in physical systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of average energy in quantum harmonic oscillators
  • Explore Planck's law and its implications in thermal radiation
  • Learn about the Boltzmann distribution and its applications in statistical mechanics
  • Read "Quantum Physics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei and Particles" by R. Eisberg and R. Resnick for a deeper understanding
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and statistical mechanics, will benefit from this discussion.

sai2020
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The question:

In 1900, Planck used an abstract model consisting of harmonic oscillators with various frequency. Derive an average energy \bar{\epsilon} of a single oscillator where the oscillators of frequency f can only take on discrete energies \epsilon_{n} = nhf, n=0, 1, 2, ... and the Boltzmann probability distribution, P(\epsilon_{n}) = exp(-\epsilon_{n} / k_{B}T). (Note: Boltzmann showed that the probability for a system at equilibrium to have an energy E is proportional to exp(-\epsilon_{n} / k_{B} T, where k_{B} is the Boltzmann constant.

I have no idea what he is talking about and my textbook doesn't say anything either. Can someone point me to a good book about these stuff?
 
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R. Eisberg, R. Resnick
Quantum physics of atoms, molecules, solids, nuclei and participles
 
Thanks a lot. It's a beautiful book
 

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