Quantized RRK theory of unimolecular reaction rates

The main difference between the simple RRK theory and the better based but more complex RRKM theory is explained. Starting from the premise that the classical versus quantum mechanical estimation of the density of states is the major source of the difference, earlier attempts to incorporate the quantum effects in an effective value for the number of oscillators s are noted. By examining the expression for the RRKM rate coefficient it is found that a single effective s value will generally not suffice, but a much better representation of the quantum effects can be obtained if it is recognized that the problem inherently contains two different effective s values. A theory based on this analysis is constructed. It reproduces RRKM results to much improved accuracy, removing difficulties found earlier with single-s-value theories.     

Abelian lattice gauge theories in 3 + 1 dimensions: The linked cluster approach

We use the linked cluster expansion methods of Nickel to derive strong couping series for Z_N abelian gauge theories. These new results together with corresponding estimates using the exact linked cluster expansion algorithm are analysed and compared with previously obtained results for U(1) lattice gauge theory in 3 + 1 dimensions. We confirm the phase structure of these theories as found by other techniques. The critical value of N at which the phase structure of Z_N alters is estimated to be N_C = 4.5 ± 0.2. In each case the string tension estimates using the ELCE algorithm are found to be stable in the presence of a roughening transition.     

Review of electrolytic conductance standards

Measurements of aqueous electrolytic conductance are performed routinely in a variety of disciplines and industries. Conductivity is a measure of the ionic content in solution and thus has applications in pharmaceuticals, power plants, rainwater, lake surveys, and oceanography, to name a few. A thorough review of the measurement of and standards for aqueous electrolytic conductance is herein presented. At present, the most precise and accurate standards have been set forth by the International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML), and have been adopted by most other standards organizations. However, the uncertainty assigned to these standards, especially the secondary standards, is somewhat larger than would be expected from the physical aspects of the measurement. Several changes in the units and measurement scales, including temperature, volume, molar mass, resistance, and concentration obfuscate the accuracy of these standards. In addition to the review, research is proposed, using a conductance cell with variable length, to establish new standards for aqueous electrolytic conductance.