Probability of a state containing n particles (Maxwell-Boltzmann)

In summary, for a system of particles at room temperature with an energy of a single particle state being 0.01 eV greater than its chemical potential, the average occupancy has been calculated. To find the probability of a state containing 0, 1, or 2 particles, the distribution function in the grand-canonical ensemble with the given temperature and chemical potential can be used. The expression for the distribution function involves the variables ε and μ, which can be found by using the given values for kT and ε-μ. The correct Z to use in this case is Zint.
  • #1
akoe
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Homework Statement



For a system of particles at room temperature (use kT = 0.026 eV), the energy of a single particle state is 0.01 eV greater than its chemical potential, so that ε-μ = 0.01 eV. Computer the average occupancy of this single particle state, as well as the probability of the state containing 0, 1, or 2 particles, assuming the particles obey Maxwell-Boltzmann statistics.

Homework Equations


Ztot=[itex]\frac{1}{N!}[/itex]Z1N

The Attempt at a Solution



I've already solved the first part of the problem - the part about the average occupancy, but I'm having trouble calculating the probability of a state containing n particles. I am pretty sure that it should be P(n)=[itex]\frac{1}{Z}[/itex]e[itex]^{-nε/kT}[/itex], because if we view the single particle states as the energies allowed, then if the single particle state has n particles in it, the energy of the state (total) is nε. But, I'm not really sure which Z to use here... is it Zint, Ztot, or Z1? Also, I don't know ε, just ε-μ, so I think that my expression needs to involve those variables...
 
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  • #2
Since the give a chemical potential, you are working in the grand-canonical ensemble, i.e., your distribution function is
[tex]f(\vec{p})=\frac{1}{(2 \pi \hbar)^3}\exp \left [-\beta \left (\frac{\vec{p}^2}{2m}-\mu \right ) \right] \quad \text{with} \quad \beta=\frac{1}{T}.[/tex]
 

1. What is the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution?

The Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution is a probability distribution that describes the distribution of speeds and energies of particles in a gas at a given temperature. It is based on the assumptions of classical mechanics and the kinetic theory of gases.

2. How is the probability of a state containing n particles calculated using the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution?

The probability of a state containing n particles is given by the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution function, which is a function of temperature, mass, and the individual velocities of each particle. This function can be integrated over all possible velocities to calculate the probability of a state with a specific number of particles.

3. What factors affect the probability of a state containing n particles?

The probability of a state containing n particles is primarily affected by temperature and mass. As temperature increases, the probability of higher energy states and more particles in a state also increases. Similarly, as mass increases, the probability of more particles in a state increases.

4. How does the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution relate to the ideal gas law?

The Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution is a fundamental component of the ideal gas law, which describes the relationship between pressure, volume, temperature, and number of particles in a gas. The Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution provides the statistical basis for understanding the behavior of particles in a gas at a given temperature.

5. Can the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution be applied to other systems besides gases?

Yes, the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution can be applied to any system in which particles have a range of kinetic energies and velocities. This includes liquids, solids, and even plasma. However, it may need to be modified for systems that do not follow the assumptions of classical mechanics.

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