On the inequality of partial temperatures of a homogeneous gas mixture in the thermodynamic equilibrium state (Q549485)

A modified definition of the state of thermodynamic equilibrium of a homogeneous multicomponent gas mixture is given. Application of rigorous mathematical methods which adequately describe the discrete character of collisions leads to a qualitatively new structure of the distribution functions and unexpected physical consequences. The general solution for distribution functions of a homogeneous multicomponent mixture of free gases in thermodynamic equilibrium predicts different partial temperatures of different components. The ratios of partial temperatures to the mean temperature of the mixture depend on the molecular weights and concentrations of the components. The effect of inequality of partial temperatures is caused by the inequality of the probabilities of head-on and head-tail collisions.