entropy of heavy vs. light molecules
Posted: Mon Jan 29, 2018 5:59 pm
In figure 9.13 in the textbook, the caption states the following: "The energy levels of a particle in a box are more widely spaced for (a) light molecules than for (b) heavy molecules. As a result, the number of thermally accessible levels, as shown
by the tinted band, is greater for heavy molecules than for light molecules at the same temperature, and the entropy of the substance with heavy molecules is correspondingly greater."
Can someone please explain why substances made of heavier molecules have a greater entropy? Thank you.
by the tinted band, is greater for heavy molecules than for light molecules at the same temperature, and the entropy of the substance with heavy molecules is correspondingly greater."
Can someone please explain why substances made of heavier molecules have a greater entropy? Thank you.