Statistical Mechanics and Thermal Physics

Topics

• variables. This course examines the mathematical basis, as well as the microscopic basis
• of macroscopic thermodynamics. Tentatively, the following topics are covered
• Introduction: heat and temperature, gas relations, 1st law
• Second Law of Thermodynamics: entropy and the 2nd law
• Thermodynamics Cycles: Carnot cycle, engines, reversibility
• temperature, magnetic systems (and 5)
• Free Energy: Helmholtz and Gibbs free energy, enthalpy, grand potential
• chemical potential, minimum of free energy, applications
• Quantum Systems: phonons, photons, quantum gases. (and 8)