Boltzmann collision term irreversibility

In summary, the Boltzmann collision term is a crucial part of the Boltzmann equation and is used to prove the irreversibility of this term through the H theorem. It is important to note that this collision term is not symmetric by time reversal. To prove this without using the H theorem, one must first find an equilibrium distribution feq where the collision term is zero and then show that any deviation of f from feq will result in the collision term being the opposite sign, causing f to restore back to feq. This can be demonstrated by setting p0 to a constant average momentum of the gas and showing that the collision term is zero for feq~exp[-(p-p0)2]. It is also important to
  • #1
lalbatros
1,256
2
Hello,

Here is the Boltzmann collision term as it is expressed on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boltzmann_equation" :

e8a8831287922e311a172221dd8d1efa.png


Deriving the H theorem from this equation is the way to usually prove of the irreversibility of this term.
Of course, this collision term should not be symmetric by time reversal.
I guess it is easy to prove that without recourse to the H theorem.
How could I do (see) that?

Thanks,

Michel
 
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  • #2
First find an equilibruim distribution feq such that the collision term is zero. Next show that the sign of the collision term is the opposite of any deviation of f from feq so that f restores back to feq.
To start off, show that the collision term is zero for feq~exp[-(p-p0)2]. Where p0 is a constant average momentum of the gas (in dimensionless units scaled by sqrt(2 m Eavg) ). p0could be set to zero for simplicity); m is mass of the particles.
Keep in mind that the vector q must be constrained so that only the angle of the relative velocity changes during a collision.
 
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Related to Boltzmann collision term irreversibility

What is the Boltzmann collision term?

The Boltzmann collision term, also known as the Boltzmann equation, is a mathematical equation used to describe the behavior of particles in a gas or liquid. It takes into account the probability of collisions between particles and the resulting changes in their velocities.

What is irreversibility in relation to the Boltzmann collision term?

Irreversibility in the context of the Boltzmann collision term refers to the fact that the equation only describes the behavior of particles in an idealized system and does not take into account the effects of external forces or factors such as viscosity. This means that the equation is only valid for systems that are in a state of thermodynamic equilibrium.

How does the Boltzmann collision term relate to entropy?

The Boltzmann collision term is closely related to entropy, which is a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system. The equation takes into account the changes in particle velocities that result from collisions, which can ultimately lead to an increase in entropy.

Is the Boltzmann collision term reversible?

No, the Boltzmann collision term is not reversible. This is because it is based on the assumption that particles behave in an idealized way and do not interact with external forces. In reality, particles can experience forces that can influence their behavior, making the system irreversible.

How is the Boltzmann collision term used in real-world applications?

The Boltzmann collision term is used in a variety of fields, including physics, chemistry, and engineering. It is commonly used to model the behavior of gases, liquids, and plasmas, and can be used to predict the properties of these systems under different conditions. It is also used in simulations and computer models to study complex systems and phenomena.

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