Derivation of the Maxwellian distribution from the microcanonical ensemble

摘要

The origin of the Boltzmann factor is revisited. An alternative derivation from the microcanonical picture is given. The Maxwellian distribution in a one-dimensional ideal gas is obtained by following this derivation. We also note other possible applications such as the wealth distribution in human society. (C) 2007 American Association of Physics Teachers.