English

Collision densities and mean residence times for $d$-dimensional exponential flights

Statistical Mechanics 2011-05-03 v3

Abstract

In this paper we analyze some aspects of {\em exponential flights}, a stochastic process that governs the evolution of many random transport phenomena, such as neutron propagation, chemical/biological species migration, or electron motion. We introduce a general framework for dd-dimensional setups, and emphasize that exponential flights represent a deceivingly simple system, where in most cases closed-form formulas can hardly be obtained. We derive a number of novel exact (where possible) or asymptotic results, among which the stationary probability density for 2d systems, a long-standing issue in Physics, and the mean residence time in a given volume. Bounded or unbounded, as well as scattering or absorbing domains are examined, and Monte Carlo simulations are performed so as to support our findings.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.1011.4002,
  title  = {Collision densities and mean residence times for $d$-dimensional exponential flights},
  author = {Andrea Zoia and Eric Dumonteil and Alain Mazzolo},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:1011.4002},
  year   = {2011}
}

Comments

13 pages, 5 figures