Einstein's heat capacity model .and law of corresponding

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on Einstein's heat capacity model and its relationship to the law of corresponding states. The equation for heat capacity, Cv/NkB = 3R(hv/(kBT))²e^[-hv/(kBT)]/(1-e^[-hv/(kBT)])², is analyzed in the context of solids, emphasizing the need to define an "Einstein temperature," ΘE, to normalize temperature in relation to the vibrational frequency of atoms. Participants clarify that while the model applies to solids, it can still reflect principles similar to those governing gases when appropriately normalized. The key takeaway is the importance of associating temperature with atomic vibration frequency to align the heat capacity equation across different solids.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Einstein's heat capacity model
  • Familiarity with statistical mechanics concepts
  • Knowledge of thermodynamic principles, particularly the law of corresponding states
  • Basic grasp of vibrational frequency in solids
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of "Einstein temperature," ΘE, and its implications in solid-state physics
  • Explore the derivation and applications of the heat capacity equation in different materials
  • Study the law of corresponding states in greater detail, focusing on its application to both gases and solids
  • Investigate the relationship between vibrational frequencies and thermodynamic properties in solids
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in solid-state physics, thermodynamics, and materials science, particularly those interested in heat capacity and atomic vibrations in solids.

terp.asessed
Messages
126
Reaction score
3

Homework Statement


B/c the textbook mentions that Einstein's heat capacity equation obeys a law of corresponding states...but, I don't really understand how this can be...I've tried to figure out, to no avail...so, any help would be welcome!

Homework Equations


Cv/NkB = 3R(hv/(kBT))2e-[hv/(kBT)]/(1-e-[hv/(kBT)])2

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried to use compressibility factor, Z = PV/RT, but it doesn't work...
Plus, I understand that the law of corresponding states = properties of ALL gases are the same if compared under same conditions relative to their critical point. So, considering it is ALL gases, the Einstein heat capacity should also work. But, how? Is it a matter of normalization or something?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The Einstein model gives the heat capacity due to vibrations of atoms in a solid. So it is not dealing with gases.

Nevertheless, the equation for the heat capacity does appear to obey a "principle of corresponding states" in a general sense. Can you think of a way to "normalize" the temperature in CV such that the equation would have exactly the same form for any solid?
 
Hello, thank you for correcting me that the Einstein model is for SOLID, not gas!
Should I think in term of temperature b/c volume (hence pressure) is held constant?
 
In the case of gases, you normalized the temperature relative to the critical temperature of the gas. Is there a temperature that you can use in the Einstein solid that could take the place of critical temperature in a gas? Hint: Is there a way to associate a temperature with the vibration frequency ##\small \nu## of the the atoms in the solid? (I need to go eat. Back later)
 
looking at Einstein equation, frequency (v) values within the same bracket as T are [hv/(kBT)]...so, is this one way to associate v with T?
 
You're heading in the right direction. You want to define an "Einstein temperature", ΘE, determined by the physical properties of the solid. Then normalize the temperature of the system ,T, by ΘE. In the Einstein model there is only one physical property of the system that is relevant; namely, the frequency of vibration of the atoms in the solid. So, what would be a natural way to define ΘE? You should be able to answer this by considering the dimensionless quantity hv/(kBT) that appears throughout the expression for CV.
 

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
5K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
6K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
4K