Statistical Thermodinamics: how many ways to make a set of population?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the number of ways to realize a population set \(\vec{n}=(n_0,n_1)\) for three distinguishable particles A, B, and C in a canonical ensemble. The particles have energy levels \(\varepsilon_0\) and \(\varepsilon_1\), with the Boltzmann formula \(W(\vec{n})=N!\prod_{\alpha}\frac{g_{\alpha}^{n_{\alpha}}}{n_{\alpha}!}\) applied to determine the configurations. The correct calculation reveals three distinct arrangements: (A,BC), (A,CB), and (B,C,A). The author initially miscalculated the configurations but later recognized their errors in applying the formula.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of canonical ensembles in statistical thermodynamics
  • Familiarity with the Boltzmann formula and its components
  • Knowledge of distinguishable versus indistinguishable particles
  • Basic combinatorial principles in statistical mechanics
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  • Study the derivation and applications of the Boltzmann formula in statistical mechanics
  • Explore canonical ensembles and their significance in thermodynamics
  • Learn about distinguishable and indistinguishable particles in quantum statistics
  • Investigate combinatorial methods for counting microstates in statistical systems
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Students and researchers in physics, particularly those focused on statistical mechanics and thermodynamics, as well as anyone interested in the combinatorial aspects of particle arrangements in energy states.

teddd
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Hi everyone!

Here's my problem of the day:

Let's take a box containing 3 identical (but distinguishable) particles A B C. Let this be a canonical ensamble.

Suppose that A has energy [itex]\varepsilon_0[/itex] and both B and C have energy [itex]\varepsilon_1[/itex]. We thereforre have 2 energy level, [itex]n_0,n_1[/itex]. Take the number of states [itex]g_{\alpha}[/itex] in each energy level [itex]\varepsilon_{\alpha}[/itex] to be [itex]1[/itex].


Now, I want to calculate in how many ways the set of population [itex]\vec{n}=(n_0,n_1)[/itex] can be realized.

At first sight I'd say that they're two: I can take [itex](A,BC)[/itex] or [itex](A,CB)[/itex], being the particle distinguishable.

But if I use the well-known Boltzmann forumula [tex]W(\vec{n})=N!\prod_{\alpha}\frac{ g_{\alpha}^{n_{\alpha}}}{n_{\alpha}}[/tex] and I put in the g's and n's I've taken above I get:[tex]W(\vec{n})=3! \left(\frac{1^1}{1!}\frac{1^2}{2!}\right)=3[/tex]so there should be three ways to set up the vector [itex]\vec{n}[/itex]!


Where am I mistaking?? Thanks for help!
 
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Ah, well, it's ok! I figured that out, I've done some serious rookie mistakes...
 

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