Thermal and Statistical Physics
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| PHYS2002 | Physics and Astronomy | 2 | 20 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- PHYS2002
- School
- Physics and Astronomy
- Level
- 2
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
Macroscopic systems exhibit behaviour that is quite different from that of their microscopic constituents studied in isolation. New physics emerges from the interplay of many interacting degrees of freedom. In this module you will learn about the important physical properties of matter and the two main approaches to their description. One, thermodynamics, treats macroscopically relevant degrees of freedom (temperature, pressure and so on) and find relations between these and the fundamental laws which govern them, independent of their microscopic structure. The other approach, statistical mechanics, links the macroscopically relevant properties to the microphysics by replacing the detailed microscopic dynamics with a statistical description. The common feature of both of these methods is the introduction of two macroscopic quantities, temperature and entropy, that have no microscopic meaning.
Target Students
Students in Part I of single and joint honours physics courses. Also available to students on Natural Sciences programme.
Classes
This module is based on a series of lectures supplemented by problem classes in certain weeks.
Assessment
- 20% Coursework 1: Continuous Assessment
- 80% Exam 1 (3-hour)
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
To introduce students to the phenomenological theory of classical thermodynamics and to its microscopic foundations in statistical mechanics.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
On successful completion of the module, students will have enhanced their:
- A1 knowledge of most fundamental physical laws, principles and techniques
- A3 understanding of how the basic principles of physics are applied in a range of situations
- A4 knowledge of the primary mathematical methods for the analysis of physical problems
Intellectual Skills
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to:
- B1 apply theoretical ideas to the quantitative analysis of physical situations
- B3 apply techniques of problem solving
Professional/Practical Skills
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to:
- C1 formulate problems in physics using appropriate mathematical language
Transferable/Key Skills
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to:
- D1 develop appropriate strategies for study, including the use of library, human, and electronic sources of information