Physics BA (C), Statistical Mechanics, 3 credits

Aim

The student will acquire the required knowledge in statistical mechanics for further studies in physics. This includes the framework within statistical mechanics that is needed to describe physical phenomena within thermodynamics and solid-state physics at the particle level.

Course objectives

After completing the course, the student should be able to:
- explain the physical concepts included in the course as well as the connections and laws that form the core of the course;
- with the help of table of formulas choose proper methods to solve simpler problems in statistical mechanics;
- when solving problems, give an account of the reasoning, its introduced quantities, results, and assess the plausibility of the results.

Content

Micro states and macro states, Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution function, relation between entropy and the number of micro states, partition function and thermodynamic functions, degeneration and density of states, Fermi-Dirac distribution function, Bose-Einstein distribution function, velocity distribution in a gas, Sackur-Tetrodes equation for entropy of a one-atomic gas, translation, rotation and vibration of molecules in a gas, heat capacity for a gas and its temperature dependence, The Schottky anomaly: heat capacity of a two-level system.

Entry requirements

Introductory courses in Calculus, Mechanics, Thermodynamics, and Quantum Mechanics.

Selection rules and procedures

The selection process is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance and the local order of admission.

Teaching form

Teaching is conducted in one or more of the following forms: lectures, video lectures, seminars or tutoring meetings. The teaching may be wholly or partly given in English.

Examination form

T101: Written exam, 3 Credits
Grade scale: Seven-grade scale, A, B, C, D, E, Fx and F. Fx and F represent fail levels.

Grading criteria for the subject can be found at www.miun.se/gradingcriteria.

The examiner has the right to offer alternative examination arrangements to students who have been granted the right to special support by Mid Sweden University’s disabilities adviser.

Examination restrictions

Students are entitled to three examination opportunities within one year according to the examination format given in this version of the course syllabus. After the one-year period, the examination format given in the most recent version of the course syllabus applies.

Grading system

Seven-grade scale, A, B, C, D, E, Fx and F. Fx and F represent fail levels.