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Title: Discrete Thermodynamics

Journal Article · · Mechanics Research Communications

Here, we consider the dependence of velocity probability distribution functions on the finite size of a thermodynamic system. We are motivated by applications to computational fluid dynamics, hence discrete thermodynamics. We then begin by describing a coarsening process that represents geometric renormalization. Then, based only on the requirements of conservation, we demonstrate that the pervasive assumption of local thermodynamic equilibrium is not form invariant. We develop a perturbative correction that restores form invariance to second-order in a small parameter associated with macroscopic gradients. Finally, we interpret the corrections in terms of unresolved kinetic energy and discuss the implications of our results both in theory and as applied to numerical simulation.

Research Organization:
Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC52-06NA25396
OSTI ID:
1406221
Report Number(s):
LA-UR-17-23929; TRN: US1703128
Journal Information:
Mechanics Research Communications, Vol. 93; ISSN 0093-6413
Publisher:
ElsevierCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English
Citation Metrics:
Cited by: 4 works
Citation information provided by
Web of Science

Figures / Tables (1)