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An Experimental Approach to Teaching and Learning Elementary Statistical Mechanics

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David C. Ellis

Westfield, NJ 07090

Frank B. Ellis

Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ 07102

J. Chem. Educ., 2008, 85 (1), p 78

DOI: 10.1021/ed085p78

Publication Date (Web): January 1, 2008

Section:

History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

Introductory statistical mechanics is studied for a simple two-state system using an inexpensive and easily built apparatus. A large variety of demonstrations, suitable for students in high school and introductory university chemistry courses, are possible. This article details demonstrations for exothermic and endothermic reactions, the dynamic nature of equilibrium, and Le Châtelier's principle. The demonstrations show how the equilibrium changes as the temperature, energy, and entropy are varied.

Keywords (Audience):

High School / Introductory Chemistry

Keywords (Domain):

Chemical Education Research

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Analogies / Transfer

Keywords (Subject):

Equilibrium

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This article has been cited by 2 ACS Journal articles (2 most recent appear below).

An Experimental Approach to Teaching and Learning Elementary Statistical Mechanics
Frank B. Ellis , David C. Ellis , Frank L. Lambert
Journal of Chemical Education2008 85 (9), 1191
- An Experimental Approach to Teaching and Learning Elementary Statistical Mechanics
  Frank B. Ellis , David C. Ellis , Frank L. Lambert
  Journal of Chemical Education2008 85 (9), 1191
  Frank and David Ellis devised an apparatus that provides powerful visual support of elementary concepts in kinetics and equilibrium, including the role of entropy in equilibrium. However, the article’s discussion of entropy change was based on an older, ...
  Abstract | Hi-Res PDF | PDF w/ Links
An Updated Equilibrium Machine
Emeric Schultz
Journal of Chemical Education2008 85 (8), 1131
- An Updated Equilibrium Machine
  Emeric Schultz
  Journal of Chemical Education2008 85 (8), 1131
  A device that can demonstrate equilibrium, kinetic, and thermodynamic concepts is described. The device consists of a leaf blower attached to a plastic container divided into two chambers by a barrier of variable size and form. Styrofoam balls can be ...
  Abstract | Hi-Res PDF | PDF w/ Links