System of particles with non-degenerate energy levels

[Elvis 123456789]

Homework Statement

A system has three non-degenerate energy levels with energies 0, ε, and 2ε.

a) Calculate the entropy of the system if the three levels are populated by two distinguishable particles such that the total energy is U=2ε.

b) Calculate the entropy of the system if the three levels are populated by three distinguishable particles such that the total energy is U=2ε.

Homework Equations

S = k_Bln(ω)

The Attempt at a Solution

my main question for this problem is the meaning of non-degenerate energy levels. I understand it to mean that the energy levels are at most occupied by 1 particle. So for part a.) ω = 2 and that would be ω = 3 if the energy levels were to be degenerate. Is this correct?

 

[DrClaude]

I understand it to mean that the energy levels are at most occupied by 1 particle.

No, it means that a particle that has an energy, e.g., ε can only be in one state. If the levels were doubly degenerate, then the same particle could be in one of two levels with that energy. That of course will change the multiplicity.