Course Overview

This lecture begins with a review of basic concepts of statistical mechanics (partition functions, black body radiation, specific of crystal, ideal quantum gas, Fermi-Dirac distribution, Bose-Einstein distribution, etc.), followed by the formulation of statistical mechanics in terms of the density matrix which is an essential tool for dealing with quantum-mechanical many-body systems. Then, we discuss the Wigner function and the perturbation expansion.

Learning Achievement

Confirming the basic concept of statistical mechanics, and understanding the formulation to statistical mechanics by density matrix description

Competence

This course corresponds to the educational objectives basic ability required to be an independent researcher or engineer and basic ability essential to practical engineering.

Course prerequisites

Knowledge of the basics of quantum and statistical mechanics.

Grading Philosophy

Grades will be determined on the basis of assignments and occasional quizzes given during the classes.

Course schedule

This lecture begins with a review of basic concepts of statistical mechanics (partition functions, black body radiation, specific heat of crystal, ideal quantum gases, Fermi-Dirac distribution, Bose-Einstein distribution, etc.), followed by the formulation of statistical mechanics in terms of the density matrix which is an essential tool for dealing with quantum-mechanical many-body systems. Then, we discuss the Wigner function and the perturbation expansion.(course schedule)
1. Basic statical mechanics (1): distribution function
2. Basic statical mechanics (2): blackbody radiation, lattice vibration
3. Basic statical mechanics (3): specific heat, Mossbauer effect
4. Basic statical mechanics (4): quantum statistical mechanics in many body system
5. Basic statical mechanics (5): Bose gas and Fermi gas
6. Density matrix (1): basic of the density matrix
7. Density matrix (2): the density matrix in statical mechanics
8. Density matrix (3): examples of the density matrix
9. Density matrix (4): Wigner function, symmetrized density matrix, partial density matrix
10. Density matrix (5): perturbation theory of density matrix

Course type

Lectures

Online Course Requirement

Instructor

Hada Masaki

Other information

Site for Inquiry

Link to the syllabus provided by the university