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PHYM501 Statistical Mechanics (IS)2007-2008Code: PHYM501Title: Statistical Mechanics (IS) Instructors: Prof. R. Jones CATS credits: 10 ECTS credits: 5 Availability: Programme F304 only Level: 5 Pre-requisites: Statistical Physics (PHY2201) (50% minimum mark) Co-requisites: N/A Background Assumed: Thermal Physics (PHY1002) and Statistical Physics (PHY2201) Duration: Semester II Directed Study Time: Not applicable Private Study Time: 100 hours Assessment Tasks Time: - Observation report: awaiting notification AimsThis module is an Independent study version of PHYM421. It is taken by students remote from Exeter, e.g. at Stage 3 of F304, who are therefore unable to attend traditional lectures and tutorials. The module builds upon the Thermal Physics (PHY1002) and Statistical Physics (PHY2201) modules already taken by students, and examines how the time-symmetric laws of quantum mechanics obeyed by all systems can be linked, through a chain of statistical and thermodynamic reasoning, to the (apparently time-asymmetric) natural processes occurring in macroscopic systems. Four aspects of statistical physics are emphasised, and illustrated by applying them to a number of physical systems in equilibrium. Firstly, it is shown that a knowledge of the thermodynamic state depends upon an enumeration of the accessible quantum states of a physical system; secondly, that statistical quantities such as the partition function can be found directly from these states; thirdly, that thermodynamic observables can be related to the partition function, and fourthly, that the theoretical results relate to experimental observations. This module furnishes the theoretical background in statistical mechanics for a number of other modules e.g. Solid State Physics (PHY3102), Quantum and Classical Fluids (PHYM423), and Semiconductors and Heterostructures (PHYM424). Intended Learning OutcomesModule Specific SkillsAfter completing this module, the student should be able to:
Discipline Specific Skills
Personal and Key Skills
Learning and Teaching MethodsIndependent study, problem sheets, e-learning resources.AssignmentsProblem sheets for completion by specified deadlines. AssessmentOne 90-minute examination (100%). Syllabus Plan and Content
Core Text(1971), Statistical Physics, John Wiley, ISBN 0-471-56658-6 (UL: 530.132 MAN)Supplementary Text(s)(1996), Introductory Statistical Mechanics, Oxford Science Publications, ISBN 0-19-851794-7 (UL: 530.13 BOW)Formative MechanismsAnswers to problems sheets will be marked and returned. Evaluation MechanismsThe module will be evaluated using information gathered via the student representation mechanisms, the marked problems, and measures of student attainment based on summative assessment. |