Maxwell-Boltzmann Distribution
The probability distribution describing particle speeds in an ideal gas in thermal equilibrium.
Governing formula
f(v) = 4π (m / (2π kB T))^(3/2) v² exp(-m v² / (2 kB T))
SI unit
s/m
In depth
Shows how particle speeds are distributed. Higher temperature broadens the curve and shifts peak speed to higher velocity values.
Examples in the real world
Determining the fraction of atmospheric gas molecules exceeding Earth's escape velocity.