Initial and boundary value problems in kinetic theory part II: The Boltzmann equation

1984 ◽  
Vol 13 (3-4) ◽  
pp. 475-497 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hans Babovsky
Author(s):  
Sauro Succi

Kinetic theory is the branch of statistical physics dealing with the dynamics of non-equilibrium processes and their relaxation to thermodynamic equilibrium. Established by Ludwig Boltzmann (1844–1906) in 1872, his eponymous equation stands as its mathematical cornerstone. Originally developed in the framework of dilute gas systems, the Boltzmann equation has spread its wings across many areas of modern statistical physics, including electron transport in semiconductors, neutron transport, quantum-relativistic fluids in condensed matter and even subnuclear plasmas. In this Chapter, a basic introduction to the Boltzmann equation in the context of classical statistical mechanics shall be provided.


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