PY3104 Statistical Thermodynamics (Period 2 2010/2011)

Credit Weighting: 5

Recommended textbook:  Thermal Physics by Kittel and Kroemer

Lectures commence: Tuesday 4th January 2011.

Lecture schedule  (see pdf file)

Course duration: 24 x 1 hour lectures + tutorials

Pre-requisite(s): PY2104

Co-requisite(s): None

Module Objective: To further develop the students' knowledge in thermal physics.

Module Content: Phase transitions, non-ideal gases, chemical reactions, binary systems, low-temperature physics, semiconductor statistics, kinetic theory, heat conduction equation.

Learning Outcomes: On successful completion of this module a student should be able to:

1. demonstrate an intermediate knowledge of the major topics of thermal physics, including phase transitions, non-ideal gases, chemical reactions, binary systems, low-temperature physics, statistical mechanics, kinetic theory and heat conduction,
2. explain the terms, conventions, laws and units of measurement appropriate to thermal physics,
3. demonstrate a proficiency in the topic by deriving the relationships associated with thermal physics,
4. utilise the mathematical equations associated with thermal physics in solving both familiar and unfamiliar numerical problems associated with this field of physics,
5. demonstrate an awareness of current research efforts in the field of thermal physics and appraise these experimental efforts in terms of the theory developed.

Assessment: Total Marks 100: End of Year Written Examination 80 marks; Continuous Assessment 20 marks (10 assignments, 2 marks each).

Compulsory Elements: End of Year Written Examination; Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.): No late submission accepted

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module: 40%.

End of Year Written Examination Profile: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s).

Requirements for Supplemental Examination: 1 x 1½ hr(s) paper(s) to be taken in Autumn. The mark for Continuous Assessment is carried forward.

Tutor: Mr. Brendan Cahill

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Problem Sets