Statistical Mechanics

3 credits · Undergraduate

Using statistical entropy, we will explore how macroscopic thermodynamic behavior emerges from microscopic models. We will consider the microanonical, canonical, and the grand canonical statistical ensembles. We will examine two-state systems as well as non-interacting Fermionic and Bosonic systems. Finally, we will learn about deceptively simple interacting systems such as the Ising model. PREREQUISITES: PHYC 3200.03 or equivalent; MATH 2001.03, MATH 2120.03