Aim: PHY 4523 is designed to be a second course in the physics of many-particle systems. You should already have taken a course in classical thermodynamics -- the description of bulk equilibrium states using a few macroscopic parameters, independent of the microscopic details of those systems. PHY 4523 explores alternative approaches involving the statistical treatment of the (quantum mechanical or classical) dynamics of individual particles. Statistical mechanics is a very general framework for analyzing equilibrium systems which also provides a microscopic basis for thermodynamics. We will look at many applications of statistical thermodynamics taken from different areas of physics. The course will also touch on nonequilibrium situations, which must be treated using the more cumbersome machinery of kinetic theory. Pre-requisites: It will be assumed that you have successfully completed an introductory course in classical thermodynamics at the level of PHY 3513 (Thermal Physics) or PHY 3062 (Accelerated General Physics III). Specifically, you will be expected to have a sound working knowledge of Chapters 1-3, 5, and 6 of Callen's book. (Most, but not all, of this material can be found in Chapters 2-5 of Reif.) Some experience with quantum mechanics will be advantageous but not absolutely necessary. Homework: Problem-solving is integral to mastering any area of physics. Most weeks you will be assigned problems to be turned in the following week. You will also be recommended to attempt other problems from the text. You should make a good-faith attempt to tackle the problems on your own. However, do not spend an inordinate amount of time on any one problem. If you get stuck, feel free to discuss your conceptual or technical difficulties with other students or with the instructor. Constructive collaboration is encouraged. The homework will account for 50% of your overall score on PHY 4523. This weighting is designed in part to encourage you to keep up with the course. For this reason, assignments turned in late will be subject to a significant penalty. You will lose 25% of your score for work turned in up to the first class meeting after the due date, after which time a 50% deduction will apply. (Each student will receive a waiver of the preceding penalties for one assignment during the semester.) No credit will be awarded for homework submitted after the solution has been distributed to the class. Exams: There will be two 2-hour exams -- a mid-term and a final. The exams will not merely require memorization and regurgitation of material covered in lectures and homework. The emphasis will be on application of concepts and methods to fairly straightforward problems, some of which may deal with unfamiliar situations. Formula sheets or textbooks will be allowed; details will be announced nearer the time. In the event of a documented conflict with another event, it may be possible to take an exam shortly before or after its scheduled time. Make-up exams will be offered only for serious medical conditions or University-approved absences supported in writing by the appropriate professional. Any request for a special exam sitting or a make-up must be made a week ahead for any scheduled absence, and as soon as reasonably possible after an unforeseen absence. Grade: Your grade will be assigned on the basis of an overall score, derived as follows:
Schedule: The schedule which follows is provided for guidance only. It is your responsibility to be aware of any changes announced in class. (Important announcements will also be posted on the course Web pages.)
Kevin Ingersent / ingersent@phys.ufl.edu / Last modified: Jan 5, 2001. |