Course Overview

Statistical Physics as well as Quantum Mechanics provides the most important backbone of modern physics. In the present course, the basic principles of statistical mechanics are explained. After reviewing the basics of probability theory, the fundamental assumption of Statistical Mechanics, "principle of equal a priori probabilities," is introduced to construct statistical ensembles. The microscopic interpretation of entropy is explained so that the connection to thermodynamics becomes constructed.

Learning Achievement

1. The students are able to calculate probabilities with the binomial, normal, and Poisson distributions.
2. The students are able to explain the difference of the mechanical energy and thermal energy.
3. The students are able to explain the microscopic and macroscopic parameters, reversibility and irreversibility of statistical systems.

Competence

Related to 2. Understanding ability of physical phenomena.

Course prerequisites

Intro. to Single-Variable Calculus I & II, Advanced Calculus, Linear Algebra I & II, Probability and Statistics, Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Thermodynamics, Modern Physics

Grading Philosophy

Homework & Class performance 30 %
Final 70%

Course schedule

Random walk and statistical Mmethods
Probability distributions
Change of random variables 1
Change of random variables 2
Microscopic States versus Macroscopic states
The fundamental postulate: statistical (micro-canonical) ensemble:
Classical interpretation of microscopic states
Exact and inexact differentials
First law of thermodynamics
Fundamental equations and equations of states

Course type

Lectures

Online Course Requirement

Instructor

Sano Nobuyuki

Other information

* You may discuss with other students for preparing the written homework. Yet, just “a copy-and-paste” will not be accepted. No late homework will be accepted.
* All exams are closed book for in-class lecture. In the case of hybrid lecture, all exams are open book.

Site for Inquiry

Link to the syllabus provided by the university