Equilibrium in a Gas Box: How Do Molecule Distributions Change?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the equilibrium state of a gas box divided into two sections, with 1000 Neon molecules in the larger section and 100 Helium molecules in the smaller section. The mean number of molecules on either side of the partition can be calculated based on the volume ratio of 3:1. The probability of finding the initial distribution of 1000 Neon and 100 Helium molecules is determined using the formula Pi = Ωi/Ωf, where Ωi represents the initial number of accessible states and Ωf represents the final number of accessible states. The calculated probabilities for the distribution of Neon and Helium gases are (1/3)N and (2/3)N, respectively.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gas laws and molecular distributions
  • Familiarity with statistical mechanics concepts
  • Knowledge of probability theory in physical systems
  • Basic principles of equilibrium in thermodynamics
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  • Study the principles of statistical mechanics and their applications in gas distributions
  • Learn about the concept of entropy and its relation to molecular states
  • Explore the derivation and implications of the Boltzmann distribution
  • Investigate the effects of different gas types on equilibrium states in closed systems
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Students studying thermodynamics, physicists interested in statistical mechanics, and anyone analyzing molecular behavior in gas systems.

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Homework Statement


A box is separated by a partition which divides its volume in the ratio 3:1. The larger portion of the box contains 1000 molecules of Neon gas, the smaller box contains 100 molecules of Helium gas. A small hole is made in the partition, and one waits until equilibrium is attained.

i) Find the mean number of molecules of each type on either side of the partition.
ii) What is the probability of finding 1000 molecules of of Neon gas in the larger portion and 100 molecules of Helium gas in the smaller (i.e. the same distribution as in the initial system) ?


Homework Equations




Pi = \Omegai/\Omegaf

where,
\Omegai = initial number of accessible state
\Omegaf = final number of accessible state

The Attempt at a Solution


I used the idea of equilibrium, reversible and irreversible processes.


"Berkeley"
 
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For the probability portion, here is what i did:

Since the partition exists with a ratio 3:1
Probability of finding N Neon gas in the larger portion = (1/3)N
where,
(1/3) is the probability of finding 1 molecule of Neon gas in the larger portion
N = 1000

Probability of finding N Helium gas in the smaller portion = (2/3)N
where,
(2/3) is the probability of finding 1 molecule of Helium gas in the smaller portion
N = 100


I believe this is correct, but please help me be sure

thanks
 

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