Volume of N dimensional phase space

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around generalizing a volume integral from 3D phase space to N-dimensional phase space. The original poster presents an integral involving momentum and seeks to understand the formulation for higher dimensions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to modify a 3D integral into an N-dimensional form, questioning the validity of their changes. Some participants discuss the need for specific factors related to the geometry of N-dimensional spheres and raise questions about the inclusion of the N factorial.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the integral's formulation. There is a mix of attempts to clarify the mathematical reasoning behind the changes proposed by the original poster and questions regarding the necessary components of the integral.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing the implications of dimensionality on the volume integral, including the geometric considerations of spheres in higher dimensions. There is also a focus on the mathematical definitions and properties relevant to the problem.

romeo6
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Hi guys,

I have a volume integral in 3D phase space that looks like:

[tex]\int \frac{4\pi p^2 dp}{h^3}<br /> [/tex]

Now, I want to generalize to N dimensions. How does this look:


[tex]\int \frac{\frac{2\pi^{d/2}}{\Gamma(\frac{d}{2})}p^N dp}{N!h^{3N}}[/tex]

Essentially, I've changed the 4 pi (which I think is the volume of a 2 sphere) into a generalized volume for an N sphere, and made some changes in the powers.

how does this look?
 
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Multiplied by p^{N-1} (with N the dimension of the momentum space) you need to have the area of the N-1 sphere.

What is with the N factorial ?

Daniel.
 
I'm not sure I understand your answer Daniel.

Do you mean I need to multiply my answer by p^{N-1}?
 
It should be something like

[tex]\int_{\Omega} dV =\int_{0}^{\infty} p^{n-1} dp\int_{\partial \Omega} dS_{\Omega}[/tex]

The second integral is the integral giving the area of the "n-1 sphere embedded in R^{n}.

Daniel.
 

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