Griffiths Quantum Mechanics Problem 1.18: Characteristic Size of System

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on Griffiths' Quantum Mechanics Problem 1.18, which examines the characteristic size of a system using two different models: a sphere and a box. The volume per particle is calculated using the formula $$\frac{4}{3} \pi d^3 = \frac{V}{N}$$ for the spherical model and $$d^3 = \frac{V}{N}$$ for the box model. The significant difference between these models results in a factor of approximately 1.8, highlighting the importance of shape in volume calculations. Participants emphasize the need for a reliable shape to fill space completely, noting that a square box is often used for computational convenience.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with volume calculations in three-dimensional geometry
  • Knowledge of Griffiths' Quantum Mechanics textbook
  • Ability to interpret mathematical expressions and formulas
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of different geometric models in quantum mechanics
  • Study the derivation and applications of the volume formulas $$\frac{4}{3} \pi d^3$$ and $$d^3$$
  • Explore the significance of packing problems in statistical mechanics
  • Learn about computational methods for modeling physical systems in quantum mechanics
USEFUL FOR

Students of quantum mechanics, physics educators, and researchers interested in the geometric interpretations of physical systems will benefit from this discussion.

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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