What is the basic difference between Maxwell and Gaussian Distribution?

In summary, Maxwell Distribution and Gaussian Distribution differ in their shapes and mathematical equations. Maxwell has a single peak bell-shaped curve, while Gaussian has a symmetrical bell-shaped curve with two equal peaks. The mathematical equations for Maxwell and Gaussian are f(x) = (1/σ√2π) * e^(-x^2/2σ^2) and f(x) = (1/σ√2π) * e^(-(x-μ)^2/2σ^2), respectively. Gaussian Distribution is commonly used to represent real-life data as it is a better fit for a wider range of data sets. Maxwell Distribution can be converted into Gaussian Distribution by adding a constant value to the variable in the equation.
  • #1
venkypunjabi
3
0
Can anyone tell me the basic difference between Maxwell and Gaussian distribution?


Thanks in Advance
 
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  • #2
Fundamentally - they have different extents and symmetry.
 
  • #3
The Gaussian distribution is a general mathematical distribution.

The Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution is a particular distribution about particles (statistical mechanics). If the components of velocity are considered as random variables, its appearance is that of a particular three dimensional Gaussian.
 

Related to What is the basic difference between Maxwell and Gaussian Distribution?

What is the basic difference between Maxwell and Gaussian Distribution?

The basic difference between Maxwell and Gaussian Distribution lies in their respective shapes and mathematical equations.

How is the shape of Maxwell Distribution different from that of Gaussian Distribution?

Maxwell Distribution has a bell-shaped curve with a single peak, whereas Gaussian Distribution has a symmetrical bell-shaped curve with two equal peaks.

What are the mathematical equations for Maxwell and Gaussian Distribution?

The mathematical equation for Maxwell Distribution is f(x) = (1/σ√2π) * e^(-x^2/2σ^2), while the equation for Gaussian Distribution is f(x) = (1/σ√2π) * e^(-(x-μ)^2/2σ^2).

Which distribution is commonly used to represent real-life data?

Gaussian Distribution is more commonly used to represent real-life data as it is a better fit for a wider range of data sets.

Can Maxwell Distribution be converted into Gaussian Distribution?

Yes, Maxwell Distribution can be converted into Gaussian Distribution by adding a constant value to the variable in the equation.

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