Maxwell-Boltzmann Statistics We take another step back in time from quantum mechanics (1930’s) to statistical mechanics (late 1800’s). Classical particles which are identical but far enough apart to be distinguishable obey Maxwell-Boltzmann statistics. classical ⇔ “slow,” wave functions don’t overlap distinguishable ⇔ you would know if two particles changed places (you could put your finger on one and follow it as it moves about) Two particles can be considered distinguishable if their separation is large compared to their de Broglie wavelength. Example: ideal gas molecules.