Thermal and Statistical Physics (F3224)
Thermal and Statistical Physics
Module F3224
Module details for 2025/26.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 5
Module Outline
Topics include:
- Review of kinetic theory of gases and first law of thermodynamics.
- Basics of statistical mechanics. Microstates, entropy, second law.
- Classical thermodynamics. Engines and refrigerators.
- More statistical mechanics. Maxwell-Boltzmann, Bose-Einstein and Fermi-Dirac distributions.
- Blackbody radiation.
- Elements of phase transitions.
Pre-Requisite
Pre-requisites:
Level 4: (F3201) Maths Methods 1 ; (F3202) Maths Methods 2 [T2] ; (F3240) Classical Physics [T2].
Level 5: (F3205) Maths Methods 3 [T1].
Co-requisites:
Level 5: (F3239) Quantum Mechanics 1 [T2].
Module learning outcomes
State the laws of classical thermodynamics, and apply them to simple problems.
Define some of the tools of statistical mechanics, and apply them to simple systems.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 20.00% | |
| Coursework components. Average of best 2 coursework marks. | ||
| Problem Set | T2 Week 4 | |
| Problem Set | T2 Week 8 | |
| Problem Set | T2 Week 11 | |
| Unseen Examination | Semester 2 Assessment | 80.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 2 hours | 11111111111 |
| Spring Semester | Class | 1 hour | 11111111111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Prof Antonella De Santo
Assess convenor, Convenor
/profiles/221345
Dr Fedja Orucevic
Convenor
/profiles/244123
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