Learning objectives
After attending this course, the student is expected to be able to:
- Know the Path Integral formulation of Quantum Mechanics, and to apply it to the solution of problems, both through exact solutions, when existing, or by applying approximation methods;
- Know the different definitions of entropy and the relation between entropy and Information;
- Know and Apply methods in statistical physics to simple interdisciplinary problems;
- Being able to find bibliographic references of frontline research topics and to evaluate the quality of scientific papers;
- Communicate effectively, through the preparation of scientific seminars on modern topics in theoretical physics.
- Being able to self-evaluate one's knowledge of a wide field such as modern theoretical physics, differentiating between conceptual and technical aspects.
Prerequisites
Quantum Mechanics and Basic Statistical Physics
Course unit content
The lectures provide an overview on results and methods of modern Theoretical Physics.
This year, the course will be organised in two sections:
- Path Integral formulation of Quantum Mechanics and applications, given by Prof. D'Amico;
- Theormodynamical Entropy, Statistical Entropy and Information, given by Prof. Burioni.
Full programme
First part:
- Path Integral Path formalism;
- Functional and Euclidean methods;
- The semiclassical approximation.
Second part:
- Thermodynamical Entropy and Statistical Entropy
- Irreversibility and the H theorem
- Relations between entropy and information;
- Variational principles of maximum entropy and statistical inference;
- Applications to Data science and learning.
Bibliography
A detailed literature will be provided, integrated by lecture notes when available.
Teaching methods
Blackboard lectures and slides.
Assessment methods and criteria
Oral examination. The student will prepare a short seminar on a subject agreed with the lecturers. This will be the initial part of the examination, which will go on with questions on the rest of the subjects taught during the course. The oral examination will last about 30 minutes. The evaluation will be agreed between the lecturers, and will be communicated to the student immediately after the end of the interview.
Other information
- - -
