Finding the mean free path using the given values?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the mean free path (λ) of electrons in a given medium at a temperature of 100 K. The relevant equations provided are λ = 1/π * d² * n and λ = kT/(4π√2 * r² * p), where n represents electron concentration. The user identifies missing parameters such as the diameter (d) and pressure (p) necessary for these calculations. Ultimately, the user discovers that conductivity can be utilized alongside mobility and relaxation time to derive the mean free path.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of mean free path calculations in statistical mechanics
  • Familiarity with the concepts of electron concentration and temperature
  • Knowledge of conductivity, mobility, and relaxation time in materials
  • Basic grasp of physical chemistry principles related to gas behavior
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between conductivity and mean free path in electron transport
  • Study the derivation of mobility and relaxation time in conductive materials
  • Explore the impact of pressure on mean free path calculations
  • Learn about the assumptions in random distribution models for particle interactions
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, materials science, and electrical engineering who are involved in calculations related to electron behavior and transport properties in various media.

joemmonster
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Homework Statement



The concentration of electrons per unit volume is given (atoms/m^3), temperature is also given in Kelvins (100 K). Other values were also given such as valence but I'm pretty sure that they are irrelevant.

Homework Equations


λ = 1/ pi * d^2 * n
λ=kT/4∗π∗√2∗r^2*p

The Attempt at a Solution


n is given but I can't find other relevant values to be inserted in the equation since d is missing and the problem didn't provide it. On the second equation, pressure is missing but I don't know if I can assume that the pressure is 1 atm.
 
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joemmonster said:

Homework Statement



The concentration of electrons per unit volume is given (atoms/m^3), temperature is also given in Kelvins (100 K). Other values were also given such as valence but I'm pretty sure that they are irrelevant.

Homework Equations


λ = 1/ pi * d^2 * n
λ=kT/4∗π∗√2∗r^2*p

The Attempt at a Solution


n is given but I can't find other relevant values to be inserted in the equation since d is missing and the problem didn't provide it. On the second equation, pressure is missing but I don't know if I can assume that the pressure is 1 atm.
I assume we are dealing with some random distribution in space of identical bodies, and you want the mean distance one could travel in a straight line without striking another. What parameters do you think will matter?
 
Ok, I just found out that conductivity is also given which I can finally derive mean free path by using mobility and relaxation time.
 

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