Physics and astronomy

Thermal and Statistical Physics

Module code: F3224
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Class, Lecture
Assessment modes: Coursework, Unseen examination

Topics covered include:

• review of kinetic theory of gases and first law of thermodynamics
• basics of statistical mechanics. Microstates, entropy, second law
• classical thermodynamics. Engines and refrigerators
• more statistical mechanics. Maxwell-Boltzmann, Bose-Einstein and Fermi-Dirac distributions
• blackbody radiation
• elements of phase transitions.

Module learning outcomes

• State the laws of classical thermodynamics, and apply them to simple problems.
• Define some of the tools of statistical mechanics, and apply them to simple systems.