Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the measurement and understanding of thermal white noise, specifically Johnson–Nyquist noise, generated by chemical batteries. Participants explore the equations involved, the implications of classical versus quantum thermodynamics, and the measurement of noise in different contexts.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Technical explanation
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- One participant is attempting to solve an equation for frequency related to thermal noise but encounters difficulties due to an exponential expression that includes frequency.
- Several participants argue that the original formula used may be incorrect, suggesting that classical thermodynamics leads to a power spectral density that is independent of frequency, which contrasts with the participant's equation that includes quantum effects.
- There is a contention regarding the necessity of including frequency in calculations of white noise, with some asserting that frequency cannot be excluded.
- Another participant points out that noise is often expressed in terms of power or voltage, and discusses the relationship between noise and bandwidth.
- One participant emphasizes that Johnson–Nyquist noise is based on classical thermodynamics and references Nyquist's original work, indicating that the participant's equation is not the classical result.
- Questions arise about the measurement setup and the conditions under which the participant is operating, particularly regarding the relevance of quantum effects in their measurements.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express multiple competing views regarding the appropriate formulas for thermal noise, the role of frequency in calculations, and the relevance of classical versus quantum mechanics. The discussion remains unresolved with no consensus reached.
Contextual Notes
Some participants note the limitations of the original equation and the assumptions involved in applying classical thermodynamics versus quantum mechanics. There is also mention of specific measurement conditions that may affect the applicability of the discussed formulas.
