Kinetic theory of gases: stochastic thermodynamics avant la lettre

Abstract

We show that the kinetic theory of gases developed by Clausius, Maxwell, and Boltzmann can be understood as stochastic thermodynamics. This comprehension is based on the recognition that the dynamics used by Maxwell to demonstrate his distribution of velocities and by Boltzmann to derive his fundamental equation is a stochastic dynamics. An essential feature of the transition rates devised by Maxwell and used by Boltzmann is the preservation of energy and momentum. Since the dynamics is stochastic and not deterministic, we may say retrospectively that the objections to the kinetic theory raised by the paradox of irreversibility is resolved or is immaterial. Using these transition rates we obtain the Kolmogorov equation associated with the stochastic dynamics We show that it reduces to the Boltzmann equation if the velocities of distinct molecules can be considered to be statistically independent. We also show how the Boltzmann H-theorem is related to the production of entropy.