Connections between thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, quantum mechanics, and special astrophysical processes
نویسنده
چکیده
This article discusses several diverse “zero-point” notions, ranging from early classical blackbody radiation analysis, to astrophysical and cosmological considerations now being contemplated. The now commonly accepted quantum mechanical meaning of “zero-point” is compared with the early historical thermodynamic meaning. Subtle points are then reviewed that were implicitly imposed in the early thermodynamic investigations of blackbody radiation. These assumptions prevented this analysis from applying to the situation when classical electromagnetic radiation does not vanish at temperature T = 0. These subtle points are easy to skip over, yet significantly change the full thermodynamic analysis. Connections are then made to some proposed mechanisms involved in various astrophysical processes. The possible connection with the observed increasing expansion of the universe is noted, and the increasing inclination of scientists to attribute this expansion to “vacuum energy.” However, since the universe is not in a state of thermodynamic equilibrium, then the commonly accepted notion of “vacuum energy” or “zero-point” energy may not really be accurate. Altering this perspective may be helpful in coming to terms with the full physical description.
منابع مشابه
Nonequilibrium Quantum Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics *
The purpose of this work is to discuss recent progress in deriving the fundamental laws of thermodynamics (0, 1 and 2-law) from nonequilibrium quantum statistical mechanics. Basic thermodynamic notions are clarified and different reversible and irreversible thermodynamic processes are studied from the point of view of quantum statistical mechanics. Special emphasis is put on new adiabatic theor...
متن کاملStatus of the Fundamental Laws of Thermodynamics
We describe recent progress towards deriving the Fundamental Laws of thermodynamics (the 0, 1, and 2 Law) from nonequilibrium quantum statistical mechanics in simple, yet physically relevant models. Along the way, we clarify some basic thermodynamic notions and discuss various reversible and irreversible thermodynamic processes from the point of view of quantum statistical mechanics.
متن کاملNonextensive Statistics: Theoretical, Experimental and Computational Evidences and Connections I Introduction
The domain of validity of standard thermodynamics and Boltzmann-Gibbs statistical mechanics is discussed and then formally enlarged in order to hopefully cove r a v ariety o f anomalous systems. The generalization concerns nonextensive systems, where nonextensiv-ity is understood in the thermodynamical sense. This generalization was rst proposed in 1988 inspired by the probabilistic description...
متن کاملRényi Divergences, Bures Geometry and Quantum Statistical Thermodynamics
The Bures geometry of quantum statistical thermodynamics at thermal equilibrium is investigated by introducing the connections between the Bures angle and the Rényi 1/2-divergence. Fundamental relations concerning free energy, moments of work, and distance are established.
متن کاملStudies in History and Philosophy of Modern Physics
In recent years a growing number of philosophers of science have come to realise that the philosophical foundations of statistical mechanics are not as secure as was once thought. Conceptual problems that had been swept under a carpet of technicalities, or simply ignored, have surfaced, solutions that were accepted are being questioned, and new routes are being explored. Thus, central issues su...
متن کامل