Advanced Statistical Mechanics

This course covers the theory of statistical mechanics at the intermediate level, in particular:

1. The formalism of statistical mechanics and its relation to thermodynamics,

   • Ensemble theory.

2. Systems of non-interacting particles,

   • classical, quantum.

3. Classical systems of interacting particles,

   • Perturbation theory: Cluster expansion;

   • Phase transitions: van der Waals, mean field theory, exact solutions, quantum phase transitions;

   • Phase transitions: scaling and renormalization.

4. Fluctuations, dissipation and non-equilibrium statistical mechanics.

The course puts strong emphasis on problem solving skills. Homework is an important element of the course. The grade for the homework can contribute a maximum of 1.5 to the final grade according to the formula:

R = (1-0.015*H)*E + 0.15*H

where R is the final grade, E is the result for the closed book exam (which may include the midterm, see below) and H is the result for the homework.

There is a midterm exam. Students having taken the midterm exam can take a final on the second part of the course material only. There is also an option to take a final exam on all the course material (for students missing the midterm or scoring a bad mark there).

If a student chooses to do the final exam on the second part of the material, the exam grade E is calculated according to

E = 0.35 M + 0.65 F,

where M is the grade for the midterm and F is the result of the final exam.

The exam grade E for a student who has decided to the final exam on all the material is just the result of that final exam F:

E = F.

There is a retake in the spring. This retake covers all material, i.e. it is a 'full' exam.

The bonus based on the homework problems keeps its validity for the retake following the semester in which the course was taught. The score for the problems is reset to 0 for the next time the course is taught.