Partition Function: Energy States & Force Constants

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the partition function for a system with two harmonic potential wells characterized by different force constants, kA and kB. The proposed partition function is Z=e^(-hwA/2kT)+e^(-hwB/2kT), where wA and wB are derived from the respective force constants. A key question raised is how small kB must be relative to kA for the higher energy state to be more likely populated at a given temperature T. The conversation suggests that further exploration of the relationship between the force constants and temperature is necessary for a complete understanding. Overall, the thread seeks clarity on the implications of force constants on energy state populations within the context of statistical mechanics.
DanPhysChem
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Hi All - If I have a potential energy surface with two energy states, one higher than the other, where I can make the assumption that both potential wells can be approximated via harmonic potentials with force constants kA and kB then would the partition function for the system be Z=e^(-hwA/2kT)+e^(-hwB/2kT) where wA=sqrt(kA/m) and wB=sqrt(kB/m)? Also, if the higher energy state was the more likely to be populated at some temperature T, how small would kB (the higher energy state) need to be in terms of kA?
 
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Anyone? Maybe I should have posted this in Advanced Physics.
 
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