Can Protons and Neutrons Behave Like an Ideal Gas?

In summary, neutrons can be said to behave like an ideal gas based on the postulates of kinetic theory, except for the assumption of no forces between particles. Protons, on the other hand, cannot be considered an ideal gas due to their positive charge and the long-range electromagnetic force. However, neutrons can still be considered an ideal gas at low enough densities. This is similar to how electrons in a metal can be considered an ideal gas due to the counteracting positive charge of the metal ions.
  • #1
SandeshPhy
25
0
can a gas of neutrons said to behave like ideal gas?
neutrons almost satisfy all postulates of kinetic theory.(except maybe about Newtons laws)

Also can a gas of protons said to be a ideal gas?
protons could be said to be simply hydrogen with electrons removed.
the electrons don't have major role in dynamics of atoms.
 
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  • #2
I would say neutrons could fit all the assumption in the kinetic theory of gases therefore a good candidate.
Protons are +charged and therefore, I would say, do not satisfy the assumption that there is no force between particles used in the development of the kinetic theory...unless there is a very low concentration of protons ?
 
  • #3
technician said:
I would say neutrons could fit all the assumption in the kinetic theory of gases therefore a good candidate.
Protons are +charged and therefore, I would say, do not satisfy the assumption that there is no force between particles used in the development of the kinetic theory...unless there is a very low concentration of protons ?

But for neutrons can we say Newton's laws will be fully applicable??
 
  • #4
For neutrons you can have an ideal gas, as long as the density is low enough, but for protons, no, because they are charged particles. For forces that fall off quickly enough, you can have an ideal gas if the density is low enough, but the electromagnetic force does not fall off quickly enough.
 
  • #5
Electrons in a metal are siad to behave like an ideal gas and is the basis for theory of conduction.
 
  • #6
Yes. The metal atoms are positively charged, so the electrons don't feel repulsion from each other over long distances, because the metal ions counteract the negative charge of the electrons.
 

Related to Can Protons and Neutrons Behave Like an Ideal Gas?

1. What is a gas of elementary particles?

A gas of elementary particles refers to a collection of individual particles, such as atoms or subatomic particles, that are moving freely and colliding with each other. These particles are considered elementary because they cannot be broken down into smaller components.

2. What are some examples of gases of elementary particles?

Some examples of gases of elementary particles include the air we breathe (composed of oxygen, nitrogen, and other gases), as well as the gases found in outer space (such as hydrogen and helium).

3. How do gases of elementary particles behave?

Gases of elementary particles follow the principles of gas laws, which describe how gases behave in terms of pressure, temperature, and volume. These particles are constantly in motion and collide with each other and their container, creating pressure. They also expand to fill the space they are in, and their behavior is affected by changes in temperature.

4. What are the properties of gases of elementary particles?

Gases of elementary particles have several key properties, including low density, high compressibility, and the ability to diffuse and mix with other gases. They also exhibit fluidity, meaning they can flow and take the shape of their container.

5. How are gases of elementary particles studied?

Gases of elementary particles are studied through various experimental techniques, such as gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. The behavior of these particles can also be modeled using mathematical equations and simulations based on gas laws and other principles of physics.

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