Understanding the phase-space representation of Ensembles

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the phase-space representation of ensembles in statistical mechanics, specifically addressing the confusion surrounding the motion of points within this space. The user understands that each point in a 6N-dimensional phase-space corresponds to a unique microstate of a physical system but struggles with the concept of these points following trajectories. The user perceives the ensemble as a static 'cloud' of non-interactive points, questioning the applicability of Hamiltonian equations in this context, particularly regarding fixed energy microstates.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of statistical mechanics concepts
  • Familiarity with phase-space representation
  • Knowledge of Hamiltonian mechanics
  • Basic grasp of microstates and macrostates
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Hamiltonian mechanics and its implications for phase-space trajectories
  • Explore the concept of microstates versus macrostates in statistical ensembles
  • Learn about the implications of fixed energy on phase-space representations
  • Investigate the role of non-interactive points in statistical mechanics
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Students and researchers in physics, particularly those focused on statistical mechanics, phase-space analysis, and Hamiltonian dynamics.

Harry Mason
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Hello , i have some troubles with basics concepts of statistical mechanics.
I feel confortable with the general idea of an Ensamble, a collection of copies of the physical system which differs from each other due to microscopic differences and having the same macroscopic behavior.

I'm ok also with the concept that a point in a 6N-dimensional phase-space represent a specific microstate of the system itselt but i fell unconfortable with the idea of 'motion' of these points.

I see the ensemble as a 'cloud' of non-interactive points each of them representing a particular allowed state.
Why should these points follow trajectories? According to the hamilton equations the possible solution are all the microstate and at a fixed energy , possible microstate are fixed so I can't imagine any motion in this space.
 
I think I wrote it in the wrong section.
I mean, maybe the 'Atomic, solid state anch comp. physics' section should be better, but I don't know how to move the post.
 

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