Instructor: Bruce N. Miller Office: SWR315 Phone: x7123
Email: B.Miller@tcu.edu Office hours: MW 4:15-5:00
Text: Introduction to Statistical and Thermal Physics by F. Reif (McGraw Hill, 1965).
Supplementary Texts: Thermal Physics by Ralph Baierlein (Cambridge, 1999),
Thermal Physics by Daniel Schroeder (Addison Wesley, 2000)
Time: MW 1:30-2:50 Place: SWR313.
Description: Thermal Physics is a course about matter in the bulk. Experience has shown us that matter in equilibrium can be described by a few essential parameters (i.e. pressure, temperature, volume, density, mass, etc.). These quantities obey certain simple, general laws, referred to as the laws of thermodynamics. These laws govern many phenomena essential in our daily lives, such as the stability of matter and the maximum efficiency of cyclical processes attainable. In this course we will show that thermodynamics is a natural consequence of the atomic structure of matter. Our first goal will be to develop the laws of thermodynamics by applying the mathematics of probability to macroscopic systems. We will then apply these laws to understand states of matter and the transitions between them. Finally we will learn how these laws can be extended to systems of identical particles obeying quantum mechanics. This will allow us to understand electromagnetic radiation, electrical conduction, and Bose-Einstein condensation.
Course Activities: Reading Assignments, Lectures, Homework, and Examinations.
Lectures: In the lecture I will follow the ordering of topics presented in the text. However, at key points I will present different approaches, which will clarify and unite the basic principles. We will cover the first nine chapters (through quantum statistics) of the text. We will omit a few sections in chapter 8.
Homework: There will be a weekly homework assignment consisting primarily of problems selected from the text. On the average there will be about four problems assigned each week, but this will vary. Bonus problems will also be considered for extra credit. When you construct your final solution to an assigned problem, it is important to show both your physical reasoning and the mathematical details necessary to obtain the result. In this way, if there is a mistake somewhere, I will be able to award partial credit for the work carried out correctly. I will also be able to help you understand the source of the difficulty. What you hand in should represent your own thinking. It goes without saying that copying is not acceptable. Any violation of the student conduct policy will be met by the maximum permissible response. However, I encourage you to discuss your approach to problems with your fellow students, but not the computational details. Execution is your responsibility. Homework is due one week after it is assigned. We will schedule problem sessions to discuss the homework as necessary. Please think about a convenient time. Experience has shown that such a time probably doesnŐt exist.
lReading Assignments: As a general rule, we will be covering about four sections of the text in each class. Keep in mind that the time from Monday to Wednesday is short so most of the reading will have to be done well in advance. When you read the text I suggest that you handle it on a section by section basis. First read a section quickly, like a newspaper, to get a general idea of where itŐs going. Then take out a sharp pencil and carefully derive each statement. Ideally, when you complete a section, you will understand each physical principle and be able to derive each mathematical result. Since none of us (me included) are perfect, there will be times when you donŐt see an idea, or get stuck in a derivation. ThatŐs where I come in. When this happens, itŐs your responsibility to let me know, so I can help get you out of your frustrating dark place.
Examinations: There will be three examinations, one after chapter 4 on the formulation of basic principles, one after chapter 7 on applications to ordinary matter, and one after chapter 9 on phase transitions and quantum statistics. Each examination will test both basic understanding and problem solving ability. However, the regular examination problems will not be overly complicated. Some bonus questions may be included for extra credit which are a little tricky. Examinations will be scheduled outside of class. Essentially there will be no time limit but, realistically, most students finish in a couple of hours.
Computer software (optional): We have a CUPS software package on thermodynamics with numerous applications. You may find other useful software on the web. I will award limited extra credit for approved projects.
Expectations and objectives: When you complete this course you should be able to apply the laws of thermodynamics to typical systems you encounter in your daily activities. To attain this understanding, you will be able to explain basic principles of probability, and to use them to derive the laws of thermodynamics from first principles. You will also recognize under what circumstances each law applies and be able to make quantitative predictions concerning the properties of matter in its various states.
Some general advice: The basic ideas of this course are easy. However, applying them to physics takes time. Students who keep up with the reading and homework usually come out all right. Students who fall behind usually have problems.
Composition of the final grade: The homework will count as one test, or 25% of your grade. If you achieve a class average of 85% or better, you will receive an A, 70%-84%, a B, 60%-69%, a C, 50%-59%, a D, and below 50% an F.
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