Statistical mechanics and probability

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between probability and statistical mechanics, specifically regarding the behavior of particles in relation to thermometers. It is established that while the probability of an event, such as a giant meteor hitting Earth, is extremely low, it is not zero. The conversation explores the concept that, theoretically, there could be a moment when all molecules are oriented away from a thermometer, leading to a reading of zero energy. However, this scenario is acknowledged as highly improbable and would take an extraordinarily long time to occur, far exceeding the heat death of the universe.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic probability theory
  • Familiarity with statistical mechanics principles
  • Knowledge of thermodynamic concepts
  • Basic grasp of molecular motion and energy transfer
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the implications of low-probability events in statistical mechanics
  • Study the laws of thermodynamics and their relation to particle behavior
  • Investigate the concept of heat death of the universe in cosmology
  • Learn about the statistical interpretation of thermodynamic systems
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those studying thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, as well as anyone interested in the implications of probability in physical systems.

flemmyd
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One of the things I've learned about probability is that it seldom = 0. For example, the probability of a giant meteor hitting Earth is incredibly low, but it isn't zero. Thats why it happened (eventually).

So let's extend this to statistical mechanics. My understanding of (say) a thermometer is the random motion of individual particles hit the probe and transfer energy to it. Statistically speaking, shouldn't there be a time when EVERY molecule points away from the probe and nothing is hitting it --> it reads zero energy? This obviously wouldn't be common, but at SOME point, it should happen.

correct, incorrect?
 
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flemmyd said:
One of the things I've learned about probability is that it seldom = 0. For example, the probability of a giant meteor hitting Earth is incredibly low, but it isn't zero. Thats why it happened (eventually).

So let's extend this to statistical mechanics. My understanding of (say) a thermometer is the random motion of individual particles hit the probe and transfer energy to it. Statistically speaking, shouldn't there be a time when EVERY molecule points away from the probe and nothing is hitting it --> it reads zero energy? This obviously wouldn't be common, but at SOME point, it should happen.

correct, incorrect?

Yes. "SOME point" being much much longer than the heat death of the universe.
 

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