Derivation of the General Boltzmann Equation and Its Validity

In summary, there are two expressions for the derivative of a function with respect to time. The first one involves partial derivatives and the dot product of velocity and the gradient of the function. The second one is more general and involves the divergence of velocity and the gradient of acceleration. This expression can be derived from the first one if velocity and acceleration are independent of position and velocity, respectively. The derivation for this expression from first principles is not mentioned, and it is unclear if this expression is valid in all cases or if it assumes independence between acceleration and velocity.
  • #1
TheCanadian
367
13
I've seen the derivation where:

## \frac {df}{dt} = \frac {\partial f}{\partial t} + \vec {v} \cdot \vec {\nabla} f + \vec {a} \cdot \vec \nabla_{\vec{v}} f ##

Although I was told this should more generally be written as:

## \frac {df}{dt} = \frac {\partial f}{\partial t} + \vec {\nabla} \cdot ({ {\vec {v}}} f) + \vec {\nabla}_{{\vec{v}}} \cdot ({{\vec {a}}} f) ##

Which follows straightforwardly from the first expression if velocity is independent of position and acceleration is independent of velocity. But would you happen to know where I can find the derivation for the latter expression more generally from first principles (as shown for the first expression)?
 
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  • #2
Also, is the latter expression valid in general? Or does it assume that acceleration is independent of velocity?Thanks!
 

FAQ: Derivation of the General Boltzmann Equation and Its Validity

What is the General Boltzmann equation?

The General Boltzmann equation is a mathematical equation that describes the behavior of a gas at the molecular level. It takes into account factors such as particle collisions and interactions in order to predict the macroscopic properties of the gas, such as temperature and pressure.

Who developed the General Boltzmann equation?

The General Boltzmann equation was first developed by Austrian physicist Ludwig Boltzmann in the late 19th century. It has since been refined and expanded upon by many other scientists.

What is the significance of the General Boltzmann equation?

The General Boltzmann equation is significant because it provides a fundamental understanding of how gases behave and how their properties can be predicted. It has many applications in physics, chemistry, and engineering, and is essential for understanding many natural phenomena.

How is the General Boltzmann equation used in practical applications?

The General Boltzmann equation is used in a variety of practical applications, such as predicting the behavior of gases in combustion engines, understanding the thermodynamics of chemical reactions, and studying the properties of plasmas. It is also used in the development of new materials and in the design of advanced technologies.

Are there any limitations to the General Boltzmann equation?

While the General Boltzmann equation is a powerful tool for understanding gas behavior, it does have some limitations. It assumes that all particles in a gas are in constant motion and do not interact with each other, which is not always the case. It also does not take into account quantum effects, which are important at very small scales.

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