Statistical Mechanics (332-0-1)

Instructors

Istvan Kovacs

Meeting Info

Technological Institute A110: Mon, Wed, Fri 1:00PM - 1:50PM

Overview of class

Physics 332 is an introductory course in statistical physics. The goal of the course is to learn how the thermal behavior of macroscopic systems can be understood in terms of the extremely large numbers of their constitutive parts. Topics to be covered include the statistical interpretation of temperature and entropy; ideal gases; free energies and the chemical potential; phase transitions; Maxwell, Fermi-Dirac and Bose-Einstein distributions.

Class Materials (Required)

Statistical and Thermal Physics: With Computer Applications, 2nd edition (Gould & Tobochnik) ISBN-10: 0691201897 ISBN-13: 978-0691201894 Previous editions: 2nd edition preferred as there are substantial updates
Online: Yes - kindle edition available to rent
Price Range: $73 hardcover, $30 to rent e-book for quarter
Other requirements: None

Associated Classes

DIS - Technological Institute L160: Tues 5:00PM - 5:50PM