Statistical Thermodynamics (M.PC6)
Lecture content:
Probability theory and phenomenological thermodynamic, justification for the canonical distribution and derivation of thermodynamical quantities based on the partition function, ideal systems (e.g. ideal gas, Ising model, intramolecular contributions to the partition function, chemical equilibrium), classical statistical mechanics (phase space, principle of maximum entropy, relationship between ensembles), non-ideal systems (intermolecular interactions, virial coefficients, structure of liquids), connection to molecular simulations, non-equilibrium statistical mechanics, transport phenomena.
Qualification goals:
Based on the basics of statistical-thermodynamical thinking, the student will get access to modern techniques of computer simulation and will gain a fundamental understanding of relationships between atomic details and the macroscopic behavior of matter and, in particular, the condensed phase.
Exam information:
4 CP, written or oral examination upon consultation, B.Sc in natural or engineering science required
Literature recommendation:
D. Chandler: “Introduction to Modern Statistical Mechanics”, Oxford University Press
T. L. Hill: “An Introduction to Statistcal Thermodynamics”, Dover Publications
T. Fließbach: “Statistische Physik”, Elsevier
F. Reif: “Statistische Physik und Theorie der Wärme”, de Gruyter
Attention: The lecture-accompanying exercises can be found in the exercise section !
