This quantity is minimized when particle speeds follow a chi-square distribution with parameter k equals three. For 10 points each:
[10h] Name this quantity whose dynamics cannot necessarily obey time-reversal symmetry, according to Loschmidt’s paradox. A result named for this quantity assumes the Stosszahlansatz (“SHTOHSS-zahl-AHN-zotts”) in its derivation.
ANSWER: Boltzmann’s H [or Boltzmann’s eta; accept H-theorem or eta-theorem; reject “enthalpy”]
[10e] Because a decrease in the quantity H corresponds to an increase in a system’s entropy, the H-theorem can be used to prove this statement which asserts that the entropy of a closed system increases over time.
ANSWER: second law of thermodynamics [prompt on second law]
[10m] Boltzmann’s H may slightly increase in finite systems due to these phenomena, the deviation of a quantity from its average value. A theorem in statistical physics corresponds these phenomena to dissipations.
ANSWER: thermal fluctuations [accept fluctuation–dissipation theorem]
<MY, Physics>