KINETIC-MODEL FOR PAIR CORRELATIONS

The kinetic equations for the single particle distribution function and pair correlation functions are considered for general nonequilibrium states of a low density gas. The formal relationship of the kinetic equations for correlations to the Boltzmann equation is used as the basis for constructing self-consistent kinetic models. The familiar Bhatnagar-Gross-Krook kinetic model for the nonlinear Boltzmann collision operator is extended to kinetic models for the dynamics of correlations at one and two times. The results provide a practical basis for describing both fluctuations and transport phenomena in complex nonequilibrium states. © 1995 The American Physical Society.