Estimating Phonon Mean Free Path in Germanium at 300K

In summary, to estimate the mean free path of phonons in Germanium at 300K, we can use the equation K=C_{V}v_{s}l and rearrange it to solve for l. However, to find C_{V}, we need to use a long equation that involves 'N', the number of atoms. However, the question does not provide enough information about the sample's mass or volume to determine N. Additionally, it is unclear which model, the Einstein or Debye, should be used to calculate the heat capacity. The Einstein model is only suitable for optical frequencies, while the Debye model is more complicated.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



If all the heat transport is by phonons, estimate the mean free path of phonons in Germanium at 300K using the following data. Thermal conductivity=80W/K m; Debye temperature=380K; atomic weight=72.6; sound velocity=4500m/s; density=5500kg m[itex]^{-3}[/itex]

Homework Equations



K=C[itex]_{V}[/itex]v[itex]_{s}[/itex]l

l is the mean free path
C[itex]_{V}[/itex] is the heat capacity at constant volume

The Attempt at a Solution



Rearrange the first equation to find l.

C[itex]_{V}[/itex] can be found using some long equation that involves 'N'

But how is N, the number of atoms supposed to be found when the question does not even tell you the mass of the sample, or what the volume of the sample is?

Please help.
 
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  • #2


To calculate the heat capacity, is the Einstein model or the Debye model supposed to be used? The Einstein model, my notes say is only for optical frequencies, so can't be used in this case? But the Debye model just seems too complicated.
 

Related to Estimating Phonon Mean Free Path in Germanium at 300K

1. What is a phonon mean free path?

A phonon mean free path is the average distance a phonon (a quantum of lattice vibration) can travel before scattering with another phonon or impurity in a material. It is an important parameter for understanding thermal transport in materials.

2. Why is estimating the phonon mean free path important in Germanium at 300K?

Germanium is a semiconductor material commonly used in electronic devices. Its thermal properties, including the phonon mean free path, affect its performance and efficiency. Estimating the phonon mean free path at a specific temperature, such as 300K, can provide valuable information for designing and optimizing electronic devices using Germanium.

3. How is the phonon mean free path calculated in Germanium?

The phonon mean free path in Germanium at 300K can be estimated using the Matthiessen's rule, which takes into account the contribution of both phonon-phonon scattering and phonon-impurity scattering. This calculation involves using experimentally determined values for the thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity of Germanium, as well as theoretical models for the scattering mechanisms.

4. What factors can affect the phonon mean free path in Germanium?

The phonon mean free path in Germanium can be influenced by various factors, such as temperature, crystal structure, impurity concentration, and defects in the material. Additionally, the type and strength of the scattering mechanisms, such as phonon-phonon and phonon-impurity interactions, can also affect the phonon mean free path.

5. How can knowledge of the phonon mean free path be applied in research or industry?

The estimation of the phonon mean free path in Germanium at 300K can have practical applications in the development of more efficient and reliable electronic devices using this material. It can also aid in the understanding and optimization of thermal transport in Germanium-based systems, which has implications in fields such as thermoelectrics and thermal management.

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