The Second Virial Coefficient for Gases: a Critical Comparison between Theoretical and Experimental Results

Abstract

On the basis of a recent theory developed by London the second virial coefficient of the following gases is computed: He, Ne, A, ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$, ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$, ${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$, C${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$, N${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$, ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$O. For the latter two, which have a dipole moment, the contribution of the dipole interaction is also calculated. The results are compared graphically with experimental values. Except in the case of He and ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$, where the disagreement can be accounted for by the presence of zero point energy, the accordance is as good as is compatible with the inaccuracies involved in the calculation.