MICROSCOPIC THERMODYNAMICS AND TRANSPORT

Credit Hours: 3 · Graduate

This course introduces concepts in statistical mechanics and non-equilibrium thermodynamics that are used to understand the physical mechanisms of heat transfer, particularly in micro/nanoscale systems. Emphasis is placed on energy storage and thermal transport by electrons, phonons, molecules, and photons. Topics include the kinetic theory of gases, thermodynamic distribution functions, energy carrier dispersion relations, Boltzmann equation modeling of thermal and electrical properties, size effects (classical and quantum-mechanical) on material properties, and thermoelectric energy conversion. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: MECH 484 .