Course Description: The
description of physical systems consisting of a large number of particles is
developed. The laws of thermodynamics are derived and supplemented through
statistical methods. Applications covered range from steam engines and chemical phase
equilibriums to Quantum statistics of ideal gasses and phase transitions in
systems of interacting particles. A recurring theme will be to understand how
microscopic properties affect macroscopic behavior.
Professor: Collin
Broholm. Office hours Monday 2-4 pm in room 345 and by appointment.
Questions are also answered by email (broholm@jhu.edu)
or phone (410) 516 7840.
Teaching Assistant: Ryan
Newcomer. Office hours Thursdays 2-4 pm in room 204 and by appointment.
Email newcomer@pha.jhu.edu ; phone
(410) 516 5087.
Text Book: “Fundamentals
of Statistical and Thermal Physics” by F. Reif. A rigorous and comprehensive
introduction to the subject. We will cover chapters 1-9 and parts of chapters 10
and 11.
Supplementary Literature:
 | “Thermal Physics” by C. Kittel and H. Kroemer is an elegant introduction to the field especially when you know it well. |
| “Statistical Mechanics” vol. 1 and 2 by L. D. Landau and E. M. Lifshitz. A classical and comprehensive survey of the field. |
| “Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics” by Claude Garrod. This is an interesting but also challenging book. It is more up to date than others listed in the area of critical phenomena. |
Lectures: MTW 1-1:50 pm
in room 278. We will go over the important and difficult points covered in the
weeks assignment and provide examples that help you solve the problems. Read the
assigned text in advance and again afterwards for optimal comprehension. Active
participation in the lectures with questions and comments is encouraged.
Conference: Th. 1-1:50 pm
in room 278. Conferences focus on improving your problem solving skills and
entertaining questions. Conference problems will be assigned on a weekly basis
so you can come prepared.
Homework: Solving
problems is how you learn physics. The weakly assignment will be due at class on
Tuesdays. This is also when you get last weeks homework back and when next weeks
homework is assigned. Assignments will also be posted on the course web page.
Exam Rules: No books are
allowed.
Grading: Final Exam 40%
Midterm Exam 20%
Homework 40%