Irreversible evolution of many-electron systems: From the quantum-Boltzmann equation toward the semi-classical Boltzmann equation

2008 ◽  
Vol 77 (21) ◽  
Author(s):  
A. Gliesche ◽  
K. Maschke ◽  
F. A. Reuse
Keyword(s):  
Boltzmann Equation ◽  
Electron Systems ◽  
Quantum Boltzmann Equation ◽  
Irreversible Evolution ◽  
Classical Boltzmann Equation

The Boltzmann Equation and the H Theorem (1872–1875)

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Olivier Darrigol
Keyword(s):  
Heat Conduction ◽  
Boltzmann Equation ◽  
Transport Phenomena ◽  
Dilute Gas ◽  
The Boltzmann Equation ◽  
H Theorem ◽  
Irreversible Evolution

This chapter covers Boltzmann’s writings about the Boltzmann equation and the H theorem in the period 1872–1875, through which he succeeded in deriving the irreversible evolution of the distribution of molecular velocities in a dilute gas toward Maxwell’s distribution. Boltzmann also used his equation to improve on Maxwell’s theory of transport phenomena (viscosity, diffusion, and heat conduction). The bulky memoir of 1872 and the eponymous equation probably are Boltzmann’s most famous achievements. Despite the now often obsolete ways of demonstration, despite the lengthiness of the arguments, and despite hidden difficulties in the foundations, Boltzmann there displayed his constructive skills at their best.

Approach to Equilibrium, the H-Theorem and Irreversibility

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sauro Succi
Keyword(s):  
Boltzmann Equation ◽  
Detailed Knowledge ◽  
Approach To Equilibrium ◽  
The Boltzmann Equation ◽  
H Theorem ◽  
Irreversible Evolution

Like most of the greatest equations in science, the Boltzmann equation is not only beautiful but also generous. Indeed, it delivers a great deal of information without imposing a detailed knowledge of its solutions. In fact, Boltzmann himself derived most if not all of his main results without ever showing that his equation did admit rigorous solutions. This Chapter illustrates one of the most profound contributions of Boltzmann, namely the famous H-theorem, providing the first quantitative bridge between the irreversible evolution of the macroscopic world and the reversible laws of the underlying microdynamics.

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