Statistical Physics

Undergraduate

The physics of large assemblies of particles. Elements of probability theory, information theory and quantum mechanics are used to develop a purely statistical theory for dealing with these physical systems at a microscopic level. Emphasis is placed upon the derivation and use of the canonical probability distribution in physical systems in thermal equilibrium. Physical systems dealt with include the ideal and non-ideal gas, paramagnetism, black body radiation, Bose Einstein condensation, and free electron theory of metals. Prerequisite(s): PHYS 3333.