NationMaster - Encyclopedia: Thermal equilibrium

In thermodynamics, a thermodynamic system is in thermodynamic equilibrium if its energy distribution equals a Maxwell-Boltzmann-distribution. This allows to attribute a temperature to the system. The process that leads to a thermodynamic equilibrium is called thermalization.

A prominent example of a thermalizing system is that of a system of interacting particles that is left undisturbed.

Categories: Stub

Results from FactBites:

Thermodynamic equilibrium - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (218 words)
	In thermodynamics, a thermodynamic system is in thermal equilibrium or thermodynamic equilibrium when its macroscopic observables have ceased to change with time -- for example, an ideal gas whose distribution function has stabilised to a Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution.
	The process that leads to a thermodynamic equilibrium is called thermalisation.
	A thermally equilibrated radiation field would have a fl body distribution at the same temperature as the massive particles.

More results at FactBites »

COMMENTARY

Share your thoughts, questions and commentary here

Want to know more?
Search encyclopedia, statistics and forums:

Feeds | Contact
The Wikipedia article included on this page is licensed under the GFDL.
Images may be subject to relevant owners' copyright.
All other elements are (c) copyright NationMaster.com 2003-5. All Rights Reserved.
Usage implies agreement with terms.