On Boltzmann versus Gibbs and the Equilibrium in Statistical Mechanics

Philosophy of Science 86 (4):785-793 (2019)
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Abstract

Charlotte Werndl and Roman Frigg discuss the relationship between the Boltzmannian and Gibbsian framework of statistical mechanics, addressing, in particular, the question when equilibrium values calculated in both frameworks agree. This note points out conceptual confusions that could arise from their discussion, concerning, in particular, the authors’ use of “Boltzmann equilibrium.” It also clarifies the status of the Khinchin condition for the equivalence of Boltzmannian and Gibbsian equilibrium predictions and shows that it follows, under the assumptions proposed by Werndl and Frigg, from standard arguments in probability theory.

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Dustin Lazarovici
Technion, Israel Institute of Technology

Citations of this work

When do Gibbsian phase averages and Boltzmannian equilibrium values agree?Charlotte Werndl & Roman Frigg - 2020 - Studies in History and Philosophy of Science Part B: Studies in History and Philosophy of Modern Physics 72:46-69.
Historical and Conceptual Foundations of Information Physics.Anta Javier - 2021 - Dissertation, Universitat de Barcelona

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References found in this work

Rethinking boltzmannian equilibrium.Charlotte Werndl & Roman Frigg - 2015 - Philosophy of Science 82 (5):1224-1235.
Boltzmann and Gibbs: An attempted reconciliation.D. A. Lavis - 2005 - Studies in History and Philosophy of Science Part B: Studies in History and Philosophy of Modern Physics 36 (2):245-273.

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