Using Sackur-Tetrode Formula to Verify Average Kinetic Energy of an Ideal Gas

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In summary, the Sackur-Tetrode formula can be used to verify that the average kinetic energy of an ideal gas is \frac{3}{2}k_B T.
  • #1
kasse
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Homework Statement



Use the Sackur-Tetrode formula to verify that the average kinetic energy of an ideall gas is [tex]\frac{3}{2}k_B T[/tex].


Homework Equations



Sackur-Tetrode:

[tex]
S_{tot}(E_A) = k_B[N_A(\frac{3}{2}ln \ E_A + ln \ V_A) + N_B(\frac{3}{2}ln(E_{tot} - E_A) + ln \ V_B)] + const.
[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



The average value is the most probable value, because of gaussian distribution. Derivation gives:

[tex]
0 \ = \ \frac{dS_{tot}}{dE_A} \ = \ \frac{3}{2}k_B(\frac{N_A}{E_A} - \frac{N_B}{E_B})
[/tex]

Am I on the right track? What can I do next? Simply set
[tex]E_A = E_B = \frac{3}{2}k_BT[/tex]
and
[tex]N_A = N_B[/tex]?
 
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  • #2
this is probably too late a response for you, but I'll post it for future readers:

The Sackur-Tetrode equation is:
[tex]
S = Nk (ln \left(\frac{4V^{2/3} \pi mU}{3N^{5/3}h^2}\right) +5/2)
[/tex]
Just take the derivative with respect to U:
[tex]
\frac{\partial S}{\partial U} = \frac{1}{T} = \frac{3Nk}{2U}
[/tex]
Rearrange and it gives:
[tex]
U = \frac{3}{2} NkT
[/tex]
 

FAQ: Using Sackur-Tetrode Formula to Verify Average Kinetic Energy of an Ideal Gas

What is the Sackur-Tetrode formula?

The Sackur-Tetrode formula is a mathematical equation that calculates the entropy of an ideal gas as a function of its temperature, volume, and number of particles. It is derived from the ideal gas law and provides a way to measure the average kinetic energy of particles in an ideal gas.

How is the Sackur-Tetrode formula used to verify average kinetic energy of an ideal gas?

The Sackur-Tetrode formula is used to calculate the entropy of an ideal gas, which is directly related to the average kinetic energy of the particles in the gas. By plugging in the known values for temperature, volume, and number of particles into the formula, scientists can verify the average kinetic energy of the gas.

What is an ideal gas?

An ideal gas is a theoretical model of a gas that assumes the gas particles have no volume, do not interact with each other, and have perfectly elastic collisions. While no real gas can fully meet these assumptions, many gases behave similarly to an ideal gas under certain conditions.

How accurate is the Sackur-Tetrode formula in determining average kinetic energy?

The Sackur-Tetrode formula is a very accurate way to determine the average kinetic energy of an ideal gas. However, it may not be as accurate for real gases, as they do not fully meet the assumptions of an ideal gas. Other factors such as intermolecular forces and non-ideal behavior can affect the accuracy of the formula.

Are there any limitations to using the Sackur-Tetrode formula to verify average kinetic energy?

Yes, there are limitations to using the Sackur-Tetrode formula. As mentioned before, it may not be as accurate for real gases due to their deviations from ideal gas behavior. Additionally, it only applies to gases and cannot be used for liquids or solids. It also assumes a constant temperature and volume, which may not always be the case in a real-world scenario.

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