Einsteins model of a solid help?

In summary, the question asks how many oscillators are in a carbon nanoparticle according to the Einstein model of a solid. The model states that in a solid with sound waves propagating through it, the atoms vibrate and are held together by "springs." Each atom can be considered a single oscillator with three degrees of freedom, so to find the total number of oscillators, you would multiply the number of atoms by three. Initially, the person cubed the number of atoms instead of multiplying by three, but they eventually figured it out.
  • #1
fball558
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Homework Statement



the question I am working on says
A carbon nanoparticle (very small particle) contains 6000 carbon atoms. According to the Einstein model of a solid, how many oscillators are in this block?

im not exactly sure what this model is. i tried looking it up online but really did not have any luck. i got some answers but the all varied.
can someone please let me know what this is or how it relates to this problem

thanks!
 
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  • #2
Well, in a solid, say with sound waves propagating through it, what's oscillating? That may get you on the right track.
 
  • #3
sound traveling through solid makes the atoms vibrate. the attems are held togeather by "springs" and depending on the strenght of these "springs" that is how fast the sound travels.
so do i have to cound the "springs" if so how do i determine how many are on each atom??
 
  • #5
yeah i figured out what i did. i cubed it instead of * by 3
thanks!
 

1. What is Einstein's model of a solid?

Einstein's model of a solid is a theoretical model proposed by Albert Einstein in 1907 to describe the behavior of atoms in a solid material. It assumes that the atoms in a solid are arranged in a regular lattice and are connected by springs, allowing for vibrations and movement of the atoms.

2. How does Einstein's model of a solid differ from classical models?

Einstein's model differs from classical models in that it takes into account the quantization of energy and the discrete nature of vibrations in a solid material. It also explains the phenomenon of specific heat in solids, which cannot be explained by classical models.

3. What is the significance of Einstein's model of a solid in the field of physics?

Einstein's model of a solid was a major contribution to the development of quantum mechanics and solid state physics. It provided a better understanding of the behavior of atoms in solids and helped explain various properties of solids, such as thermal conductivity and specific heat.

4. Are there any limitations to Einstein's model of a solid?

Einstein's model of a solid has its limitations, as it does not take into account the interactions between atoms and only considers the harmonic vibrations of the atoms. It also does not explain certain properties of solids at low temperatures.

5. How has Einstein's model of a solid been tested and validated?

Einstein's model of a solid has been extensively tested and validated through experiments and observations. It has been found to accurately predict the specific heat and thermal conductivity of various solids. However, with advancements in technology, more sophisticated models have been developed to better describe the behavior of atoms in solids.

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