Physique Statistique

Statistical Physics

Description: Statistical physics is one of the pillars of modern physics, alongside quantum mechanics and relativity. Its main objective is to study the collective behavior of systems composed of a large number of particles, aiming to establish a connection between macroscopic physical behavior and the microscopic laws that govern the evolution of individual components. By combining principles derived from (macroscopic) thermodynamics, we delve down to the microscopic scale to investigate how matter and energy are distributed.

Bibliography:

• Ref. [1] : C. Ngô and H. Ngô, Physique Statistique, Dunod, 3eme Ed. (2008)
• Ref. [2] : B. Diu, C. Guthmann, D. Lederer, B; Roulet, Physique Statistique, Hermann, (1997)

Learning outcomes: By the end of this course, students will be able to: AA1: Understand the fundamental concepts of statistical physics and thermodynamics – AA2: Use statistical distributions to describe the microscopic states of systems – AA3: Understand and analyze the different ensembles—canonical, grand canonical, and microcanonical—and their use in describing physical systems under various conditions – AA4: Compute distribution functions and partition functions to describe the statistical equilibrium of systems – AA5: Apply the concepts learned to solve concrete problems related to statistical physics

Evaluation methods: 1h30 written test, can be retaken.

Evaluated skills:

• Physical Modeling

Course supervisor:

• Nicolas Marsal

Geode ID: SPM-PHY-002