This core third year physics course develops statistical mechanics and condensed matter physics. It is based on the textbook Introduction to Statistical Physics by Kerson Huang, and will cover thermodynamics and the various ensembles in statistical physics. We then move onto phase transitions, noise, the Langevin equation, and quantum systems such as Bose and Fermi gases. To conclude we examine order parameters, superconductivity and superfluidity. It is a course of essential importance for all students wishing to understand condensed matter and many-body systems.
This course is one of the 3rd year options for the physics major, and is recommended for those intending to do honours in Physics.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:- Apply classical equilibrium thermodynamics to make physical predictions.
- Describe the effects of quantum mechanics on statistical mechanics.
- Use computer simulation techniques to model physical systems with noise, such as the Langevin equation.
- Apply statistical mechanics to condensed matter systems and to such examples as the Bose and Fermi gases, and superconductors.
- Explain how the order parameter is used in describing phase transitions.
Indicative Assessment
Assessment consists of:- Online quizzes (35%, LO 1,2,4).
- Computational Project (15%, LO 1,3)
- Exam (60%, LO 1,2,4).
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
Three 1 hour lectures per week, augmented by Wattle quizzes after each lecture. Plus 7 hours per week ofassociated study.
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
Introduction to Statistical Physics by Kerson Huang, 2nd edition, CRC press, ISBN 978-1-4200-7902-9Specialisations
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
If you are a domestic graduate coursework or international student you will be required to pay tuition fees. Tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are an undergraduate student and have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). You can find your student contribution amount for each course at Fees. Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2019 | $3840 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2019 | $5460 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
First Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4233 | 25 Feb 2019 | 04 Mar 2019 | 31 Mar 2019 | 31 May 2019 | In Person | N/A |
Second Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9273 | 22 Jul 2019 | 29 Jul 2019 | 31 Aug 2019 | 25 Oct 2019 | In Person | N/A |