How to derivate Maxwell Boltzmann Distribution

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the derivation of the Maxwell Boltzmann Distribution, specifically the function ψ(v) = (m/2πkT)^(3/2) e^(-mv^2/2kT). Participants express dissatisfaction with existing online resources and seek clarity on the derivation process. Key points include the need for a solid understanding of statistical mechanics and the challenges faced when differentiating the function with respect to velocity components. Two specific resources are shared for further exploration of the topic.

PREREQUISITES
  • Statistical Mechanics fundamentals
  • Understanding of differentiation in calculus
  • Familiarity with the Maxwell Boltzmann Distribution
  • Basic knowledge of thermodynamic concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Maxwell Boltzmann Distribution in detail
  • Learn about the statistical mechanics principles relevant to the distribution
  • Explore differentiation techniques for multivariable functions
  • Review applications of the Maxwell Boltzmann Distribution in physical systems
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in physics, particularly those studying statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, or kinetic theory, will benefit from this discussion.

Troller
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Hi PFers. I am interested in Maxwell Boltzmann Distribution. I have searched in Internet for the derivation but I am not satified with them. Can somebody show me the way to derivate it? Thanks.
ψ(v)=(m/2*pi*kT)^(3/2) e^(-mv^2/2kT)
 
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There are many ways to derive it - some more insightful than others.

Have you taken/taking stat mech?
 
Thanks for the answer.
I haven't taken Statistical Mechanics but Statistics. Could it be useful for this?
 
Troller said:
I have searched in Internet for the derivation but I am not satified with them.

It would help if you tell us why you are not satisfied. Then people won't waste time pointing you to the same things again. :smile:
 
Thanks. Yeap, here.

1st http://www.eecis.udel.edu/~breech/physics/physics-notes/node32.html

Sorry I haven't used LaTeX well enough to type it here again. At derivation of ψ(v)=f(vx)f(vy)f(vz) by taking derivatives with respect to vx, it is very unclear to me. I think dψ/dvx = dψ/dv * dv/dvx. And after that I don't know how to solve it.

2nd http://www.maxwellsociety.net/PhysicsCorner/Miscellaneous Topics/MaxwellBoltzmann.html

This seems better and easier. At the part argumenting for spherical shell, there are a lot of values of vx/y/z so that give the same value of v!? And the application of function g(v)=\alphav^n * e^(-\betav^2) is a bit evidencelessly.
 

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