The equation of state of non-relativistic energy

In summary, non-relativistic energy has an equation of state with w=0 because the pressure is negligible in comparison to the energy density for normal non-relativistic matter. This is due to the fact that the pressure is proportional to temperature while the energy density is proportional to the mass of each particle. However, when the temperature becomes comparable to the mass, the pressure becomes significant and the gas behaves as radiation. The concept of pressure is the same in general relativity, thermodynamics, and statistical mechanics.
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Joey21
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I just have a quick question about a concept I think I haven't fully grasped from my cosmology course.

Why does non-relativistic energy have an equation of state with w=0?
Also, is the concept of pressure different in general relativity than in thermodynamics or statistical mechanics?
 
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No, it is the same concept. It is just that for normal non-relativistic matter, the pressure is negligible in comparison to the energy density. Consider an ideal gas and the pressure is going to be proportional to the temperature while the energy density is proportional to the mass of each particle. As long as the temperature is much lower than the mass, pressure is negligible (when temperature becomes comparable to mass you start reaching a relativistic gas behaving as radiation).
 
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Joey21 said:
Why does non-relativistic energy have an equation of state with w=0?
The model being used in this context is of a gas. The pressure of a gas is a function of the velocities of the individual particles that make up the gas. Those velocities have to be relativistic if the pressure is to be significant compared to the mass density.

Joey21 said:
Also, is the concept of pressure different in general relativity than in thermodynamics or statistical mechanics?
It's the exact same concept.
 
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Thanks for the quick replies! They will be a lot of help.
 

1. What is the equation of state of non-relativistic energy?

The equation of state of non-relativistic energy is a mathematical relationship that describes the behavior of a non-relativistic system in terms of its energy, volume, and number of particles. It is commonly used in thermodynamics to study the properties of gases, liquids, and solids.

2. How is the equation of state of non-relativistic energy derived?

The equation of state of non-relativistic energy is derived from the fundamental laws of thermodynamics, such as the first and second laws, combined with the ideal gas law. It can also be derived from statistical mechanics, which describes the behavior of a large number of particles in a system.

3. What is the significance of the equation of state of non-relativistic energy?

The equation of state of non-relativistic energy is significant because it allows scientists to understand and predict the behavior of a system based on its energy, volume, and number of particles. It is also a fundamental tool in many areas of physics, such as thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and astrophysics.

4. How does the equation of state of non-relativistic energy differ from the equation of state of relativistic energy?

The equation of state of non-relativistic energy is applicable to systems where the particles are not moving at speeds close to the speed of light, while the equation of state of relativistic energy is used for systems where the particles are moving at relativistic speeds. The equations are different due to the effects of special relativity on energy and momentum at high speeds.

5. Can the equation of state of non-relativistic energy be applied to all types of systems?

Yes, the equation of state of non-relativistic energy can be applied to a wide range of systems, including gases, liquids, and solids. It is a general equation that can be used to describe the behavior of any system that is not subject to the effects of special relativity. However, for systems where relativistic effects are significant, the equation of state of relativistic energy should be used instead.

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