Level of study
BAC +3
ECTS
5 credits
Component
Faculty of Science
Hourly volume
45h
Description
This module is an introduction to the concepts and methods of statistical physics of equilibrium systems with a bottom-up approach: starting with examples and then giving the general principles. It draws heavily on the course by Harvey Gould and Jan Tobochnik. A historical introduction to the construction of the theory of Brownian motion constitutes the last chapter of the course.
Objectives
- Master the probabilistic tools and concepts used in statistical physics of systems at equilibrium, calculate a mean, a standard deviation, know the main statistical functions (Gaussian law, binomial, exponential, Poisson..)
- Know how to count the number of accessible microstates for a macroscopic system at equilibrium in the classical and semi-classical approximation.
- Calculate the static entropy of the canonical and/or grand-canonical partition function of simple non-interacting systems, including gases of fermions and bosons.
- Acquire a historical perspective of the construction of the theory of Brownian motion
Necessary pre-requisites
- UE Thermodynamics 2 in L2
- Basics of quantum mechanics
Knowledge control
100% CT
Syllabus
1. From microscopic to macroscopic behavior of matter.
2. Probabilistic mathematical concepts and tools.
3. Methodology of statistical physics.
4. Systems of particles without interaction.
5. Van der Waals fluid model: liquid-gas transition.
6. Brownian motion: historical overview
Additional information
CM : 22.5 h
TD : 22.5 h