Learning objectives
<p>Understanding the fundamental aspects of quantum statistical mechanics and its most important applications.</p>
Course unit content
<p>Outline of classical statistical mechanics.<br />
Mixed states in quantum statistical mechanics. Density operator, statistical entropy.</p>
<p>Fundamental principle of statistical mechanics, quantum statistical ensembles. Ideal quantum gases, paramagnets, molecular rotations and vibrations, heat capacity of solids.</p>
<p>Phase transitions. Linear response.</p>
Bibliography
L. E. Reichl, <em>A Modern Course in Statistical Physics, <br />
</em><br />
H. E. Stanley, <em>Introduction to Phase Transitions and Critical Phenomena.</em>