Pair-correlation expression for internal energy
ID: pair-correlation-expression-for-internal-energy
For a classical monatomic homogeneous fluid with pairwise central pair potential , the mean interaction energy is one half the sum over neighbours of a tagged particle. Using the radial distribution function gives the displayed formula; the factor one half prevents counting each pair twice. The kinetic term follows from the equipartition theorem. Its use requires the relevant integral to exist and a thermodynamic state specified by number density and temperature. Quantum kinetic contributions, many-body forces and internal molecular modes require modifications.
New to topics? Read the docs here!