Published online by Cambridge University Press: 24 October 2008
The Statistical Mechanics which has been developed in accordance with the requirements of the new Quantum Theory is concerned with distribution laws over energy values only—over, that is, the characteristics of Schrödinger's equation. To obtain a space distribution law, even for the Classical limit, some use must be made of the characteristic functions. A formula has been suggested by Fowler, but it has not been shown that this formula gives the Classical law for gases at ordinary temperatures and pressures. In this paper we shall show that this is so, but before doing so we shall sketch the analogous method of obtaining the law, on the Classical theory.
* Fowler, R. H., Proc. Roy. Soc., A, Vol. CXIII, p. 447.Google Scholar
* Fowler, R. H., loc. cit.Google Scholar
† If J be the mean energy of a hydrogen molecule at 0° C.,
The approximation will only break down at distances of the order of the intermolecular distances.
* Jeffreys, , Proc. Lond. Math. Soc., Ser. 2, Vol. XXIII, Part 6.Google Scholar
† Jeffreys, ibid.