This core 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 on to 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.
Note: This course is co-taught with undergraduate students but assessed separately.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Apply classical equilibrium thermodynamics to make physical predictions.
- Discuss 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.
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities with application to a diverse range of practical problems in classical thermodynamics and statistical mechanics.
- Demonstrate high level oral and written communication skills
Indicative Assessment
- Wattle Quizzes - average 2 per week (14) [LO 1,2,4,5]
- Short Wattle Quizzes (1 question each) (2) [LO 1,2,4,5]
- Tutorial Homework Questions (1 question per week) (10) [LO 1,2,4,5,6]
- Four Computational Projects (8) [LO 1,2,4,5,6,7]
- One Traditional problems assignment (10) [LO 1,2,4,5,6]
- 1 x essay or video (6) [LO 1,2,3,4,5,6,7]
- Mid-semester exam (20) [LO 1,2,3,4,5,6,7]
- Final Exam (30) [LO 1,2,3,4,5,6,7]
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
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including:
- A face-to-face component which consists of a 2-hour workshop per week and a 2-hour drop-in tutorial per week
- Approximately 80 hours of self-directed study which will include preparation for lectures, quizzes, and other assessment tasks.
Inherent Requirements
No specific inherent requirements have been identified for this course
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
Introduction to Statistical Physics by Kerson Huang, 2nd edition, CRC press, ISBN 978-1-4200-7902-9
Assumed Knowledge
Multi variable calculus. Ordinary and partial differential equations and the solution of boundary value problems. Vector calculus including gradient, divergence and curl, Stoke's theorem and the divergence theorem.
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you 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). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found 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 |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $4680 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $6720 |
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.
Second Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7873 | 21 Jul 2025 | 28 Jul 2025 | 31 Aug 2025 | 24 Oct 2025 | In Person | N/A |