- #1
TheCanadian
- 367
- 13
If we had a a sample of atoms in thermal equilibrium at a temperature, T, it would approximately follow a Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution and be isotropic. But if we now subject these atoms to a force in one direction (e.g. gravity, perhaps near a dense object), it will take the system out of equilibrium. But is there a (simple) way to now continue considering the distribution function for these atoms subject to this force? Can the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution be adopted in form to one where the atoms are anisotropic with net velocity/acceleration in a particular direction? Or are there no well-defined distributions in such a case of being out equilibrium, and the characteristics of the sample would have to be considered at the level of each atom?