Degree of Freedom Formula:
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Definition: Degree of freedom refers to the number of independent ways a molecule can move or store energy.
Purpose: This calculator determines the total degrees of freedom for a non-linear molecule based on its atomicity.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: For non-linear molecules, there are 6 constraints (3 translational and 3 rotational degrees of freedom) subtracted from the total possible degrees of freedom.
Details: Understanding degrees of freedom helps in studying molecular motion, thermodynamics, and spectroscopy of molecules.
Tips: Enter the atomicity (number of atoms in the molecule) as a whole number greater than 0.
Q1: What's the difference between linear and non-linear molecules?
A: Linear molecules have 5 constraints (3 translational + 2 rotational) while non-linear have 6 (3 translational + 3 rotational).
Q2: Why subtract 6 in the formula?
A: This accounts for the 3 translational and 3 rotational degrees of freedom that are constrained for the molecule as a whole.
Q3: What's a typical atomicity value?
A: Common values range from 3 (like H₂O) to dozens for complex organic molecules.
Q4: How does this relate to vibrational modes?
A: The remaining degrees of freedom after subtracting translational and rotational are vibrational degrees of freedom.
Q5: Does this apply to all states of matter?
A: The formula applies to gases and liquids where molecules can rotate freely. In solids, rotational degrees are often constrained.