Statistical Mechanics Thermodynamic Functions of Classical and Quantum Plasma at High Temperatures

Abstract

Statistical mechanics is that branch of physics, which studies macroscopic systems from a microscopic or molecular point of view. The goal of statistical mechanics is the understanding and prediction

of macroscopic phenomena and the calculation of macroscopic properties from the properties of the individual molecules making up the system. Statistical mechanics may be broadly classified into t\vo parts. one dealing with systems in equilibrium and the other with systems not in equilibrium. The treatment of systems m equilibrium 1s usually referred to as

statistical thermodynamic, smce it acts as bridge between thermodynamics and molecular physics. Statistical thermodynamics itself may be further divided into two parts: The first; the study of systems of molecules in which molecular interactions may be neglected uch as dilutegases and the second; the study of systems in which the molecular interactions are ofprime importance such as fluids. Particle-; may be classified into one of two types: Fermi-Dirac particles. also called fermions, and Bose-Einstein particles, or bosons. The \>vaH: function of any state of a collection of bosons must be a

symmetric function of the coordinates of the particles. whereas. for fermions. the wave function must be antisymmetric. The first statistical theory for a system of charged particles in the

classical form has been initiated by Debye- Hiickel (1923) [1]. There are many attempts to improve the Debye- Hi.ickel theory in order to make it applicable to systems of higher density and lower temperature.