PHSCS 360

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Statistical and Thermal Physics

Physics and Astronomy College of Computational, Mathematical & Physical Sciences

Course Description

Principles of statistical mechanics and thermodynamics, with applications.

When Taught

Winter

Min

3

Fixed/Max

3

Fixed

3

Fixed

0

Other Prerequisites

Math 302 or Math 314.

Title

Thermodynamics

Learning Outcome

Use statistical arguments to explain thermodynamics from first principles, including heat flow and the increase of entropy. Apply these to solve quantitative problems in thermodynamics.

Title

Equilibrium and Phase Transformations

Learning Outcome

Use thermodynamic potentials, e.g. the Helmholtz and Gibbs free energies, to predict equilibrium states in physical systems and predict phase transformations.

Title

Explain Physical Phenomena

Learning Outcome

Use simple models to explain physical phenomena in a variety of systems, including: classical and quantum ideal gases, magnetic systems, solids.