The discussion centers on the feasibility of calculating the partition function for a driven harmonic oscillator (DHO). Participants assert that the partition function is primarily applicable to systems in equilibrium, while the DHO, influenced by an external driving force, is not in equilibrium. The consensus indicates that calculating the partition function for a DHO is not straightforward and may not yield meaningful results.
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Prima facie I would say no, because the partition function is really only well-defined at equilibrium, and the system is not at equilibrium (the driving force is pumping energy into the oscillator). I could be wrong, though.L_landau said:Is it possible to calculate it for a driven harmonic oscillator?