Statistical Physics

This module provides an introduction to the concepts and methods of statistical physics for systems at equilibrium, using a bottom-up approach: starting with examples and then deriving the general principles. It draws heavily on the course by Harvey Gould and Jan Tobochnik. The final chapter of the course offers a historical introduction to the development of the theory of Brownian motion.

• Master the probabilistic tools and concepts used in the statistical physics of systems at equilibrium; calculate a mean and a standard deviation; and understand the main statistical distributions (Gaussian, binomial, exponential, Poisson, etc.)
• Be able to count the number of accessible microstates for a macroscopic system at equilibrium in the classical and semiclassical approximations.
• Compute the static entropy of the canonical and/or grand-canonical partition functions for simple non-interacting systems, including fermion and boson gases.
• Gain a historical perspective on the development of the theory of Brownian motion

• Course: Thermodynamics 2 (Second Year)
• Fundamentals of Quantum Mechanics

100% CT

1. From the microscopic behavior to the macroscopic behavior of matter.

2. Mathematical concepts and tools in probability.

3. Methodology of Statistical Physics.

4. Particle systems without interactions.

5. Van der Waals fluid model: liquid-gas transition.

6. Brownian motion: a historical overview

CM: 22.5 h

TD: 22.5 hours