Course syllabus for Statistical physics

The course syllabus contains changes
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Course syllabus adopted 2021-02-08 by Head of Programme (or corresponding).

Overview

  • Swedish nameStatistisk fysik
  • CodeTIF305
  • Credits7.5 Credits
  • OwnerMPPHS
  • Education cycleSecond-cycle
  • Main field of studyEngineering Physics
  • DepartmentPHYSICS
  • GradingTH - Pass with distinction (5), Pass with credit (4), Pass (3), Fail

Course round 1

  • Teaching language English
  • Application code 85133
  • Block schedule
  • Open for exchange studentsYes

Credit distribution

0119 Examination 7.5 c
Grading: TH		 7.5 c
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Examiner

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Eligibility

General entry requirements for Master's level (second cycle)
Applicants enrolled in a programme at Chalmers where the course is included in the study programme are exempted from fulfilling the requirements above.

Specific entry requirements

English 6 (or by other approved means with the equivalent proficiency level)
Applicants enrolled in a programme at Chalmers where the course is included in the study programme are exempted from fulfilling the requirements above.

Course specific prerequisites

Linear algebra and analysis, mathematical statistics, complex analysis, thermodynamics, classical mechanics, quantum mechanics.

Aim

Statistical physics comprises several general concepts and very powerful tools to study the properties of many-degree-of-freedom systems as well as the influence of the external world on systems. The latter leads to stochastic fluctuations, i.e., different forms of noise. The methods of statistical physics have a wide range of applications such as in astrophysics, biophysics, materials science, quantum information, economy, and even social sciences. The purpose of this course is to introduce the students to some of the most commonly used concepts and tools of statistical mechanics and their application in different fields of physics.

Content

- Brownian motion and phase space dynamics (single-particle vs ensemble description)
- Density matrix approach (quantum statistical physics)
- Phase transitions and interacting systems
- Entropy, irreversibility and information
- Master equation and detailed balance
- Linear response, susceptibilities, noise, fluctuation-dissipation theorem


Organisation

The course will have two lectures and one problem-solving session per week during the first seven weeks of the course. The eighth and final week is devoted to self-studies.

Literature

Suggestions for literature:

- James P. Sethna: Entropy, Order Parameters, and Complexity, (freely available on the web).
- Linda E. Reichl: A Modern Course in Statistical Physics, 4th Edition (2016).


Examination including compulsory elements

Examination and grading will be based on the solutions to the hand-in problems and performance on the final oral examination.

The course examiner may assess individual students in other ways than what is stated above if there are special reasons for doing so, for example if a student has a decision from Chalmers on educational support due to disability.

The course syllabus contains changes

  • Changes to course rounds:
    • 2024-02-21: Block Block changed from B to B+ by Lina Haglund
      [Course round 1]