Griffiths Quantum Mechanics Problem 1.18: Characteristic Size of System

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem from Griffiths' Quantum Mechanics regarding the characteristic size of a system, specifically focusing on the interpretation of intermolecular distances and volume distribution among particles.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore different geometric models for representing particle distribution, comparing a spherical model to a cubic model. Questions arise about the implications of these models on volume calculations and the completeness of filling space.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, questioning the assumptions behind the chosen shapes for modeling and discussing the implications of these choices. There is recognition of the differences in volume calculations based on the geometric assumptions, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the computational convenience of using a square box model, while others reflect on the reliability of shapes in representing physical systems. The discussion highlights the potential impact of these assumptions on the interpretation of results.

yucheng
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Homework Statement
The characteristic size (length) of ideal gas where quantum effects are non-negligible is the intermolecular distance, ##d##
Relevant Equations
##pV = Nk_BT##
intermolecular distance means distance between particles. So, I imagine a sphere.

$$\frac{4}{3} \pi d^3 = \frac{V}{N}$$

However, Griffitfhs pictures a box instead, where

$$d^3 = \frac{V}{N}$$

And the difference between both models is a factor of ##(4\pi/3)^{2/5} \approx 1.8##, which is fairly large...
 
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If you fill a box with oranges, does it fill the space completely? Griffiths is correct
 
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hutchphd said:
If you fill a box with oranges, does it fill the space completely? Griffiths is correct
I think I understand... So I guess I should have searched for a reliable shape to fill the whole space!
 
And usually we imagine the box to be square, for computational convenience...
 
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