PHYS 340 - Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics

Units: 3
Connection between macroscopic properties of light and matter and microscopic characteristics of their constituent particles is explored. Topics of study include microstates/macrostates, energy, temperature, heat, entropy, the canonical ensemble and partition function, quantum degenerate gases, chemical equilibrium, and phase transitions.

Prerequisites: MATH 230, and PHYS 137 or PHYS 126.
Possible Instructional Methods: On-ground.
Grading: A-F or CR/NC (student choice).
Course Typically Offered: Variable Intermittently

Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Students will be able to explain the connection between microstates and macrostates, and in particular the nature of entropy.
Students will be able to apply the Laws of Thermodynamics to analyze the behavior of various macroscopic systems (for example, heat engines and refrigerators).
Students will be able to use the partition function to calculate thermodynamic properties of various systems.
Students will be able to explain the difference between fermions and bosons and the nature of quantum degeneracy.
Students will be able to apply the concept of the chemical potential to solve problems involving chemical reactions and phase transitions.