- #1
Linop
I am stuck on this concept in my physics book where the author claims that in a low density ionic gas the average of the time between collision and average of the time taken from last collision in ions is same. He further states that the average time to the next collision is same as the average time from last collision. The velocity of each ion after collision is random.
Now if I apply definition of average of time intervals it follows from my calculations that average of time between collision is equal to the sum of average of time from last collision and to next collision. I am confused by this because the book specifically mentions that my result is incorrect. Please help me in this matter.
Ref: Electricity and Magnetism first edition by Edward M Purcell page# 121.
It is my first post in any physics forum so please forgive me for any mistakes.
Now if I apply definition of average of time intervals it follows from my calculations that average of time between collision is equal to the sum of average of time from last collision and to next collision. I am confused by this because the book specifically mentions that my result is incorrect. Please help me in this matter.
Ref: Electricity and Magnetism first edition by Edward M Purcell page# 121.
It is my first post in any physics forum so please forgive me for any mistakes.