An Introduction to Statistical Mechanics
Michelle M. Francl
Department of Chemistry, Bryn Mawr College, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Abstract
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Commentary
More Information: Keywords, JCE Citation
Abstract
This Mathematica notebook introduces physical chemistry students to the partition function for vibrational and rotational energy. Students start with a review of Sterling’s approximation and proceed to examine the harmonic oscillator partition function. They extend their understanding by using their own experimental data or a supplied spectrum to study the fine structure of HCl/DCl or some other diatomic gas. The notebook guides students in their understanding of the effect of temperature on the partition function and the changes in the partition function for different molecules.
Downloads
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Document link |
Document type |
Download Info |
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IntroStatMech.nb |
Mathematica 5.0 |
5.4 MB |
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Fully interactive with Mathematica 5 or higher
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IntroStatMech.pdf |
Acrobat.pdf |
806 KB |
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Non-interactive derived from Matematica file above. |
JCE Subscribers only: Institutional IP number access or name and password required
Commentary
Editor's Commentary
Other Information
Keywords
Computer-Based Instruction; Laboratory Instruction; Physical Chemistry; Quantum Chemistry; Statistical Mechanics; Sprectroscopy; IR Spectroscopy; Symbolic Mathematics; Upper-Division Undergraduate
JCE Citation
Francl, Michelle M. J. Chem. Educ. 2005, 82, 175.
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