Statistical Physics (FYS340)
The course gives an introduction to statistical physics.
Course description for study year 2025-2026
Course code
FYS340
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
10
Semester tution start
Spring
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Spring
Language of instruction
English, Norwegian
Admission requirements
Science and mathematics qualification (REALFA) / Higher engineering education (HING)
Content
The course provides a comprehensive introduction to the theoretical foundations of statistical physics and its connections to thermodynamics. Topics covered include the statistical definitions of temperature and entropy, microstates and macrostates, statistical ensembles and the partition function, the density matrix and Fock space, theory of free classical and quantum gases, Bose-Einstein and Fermi-Dirac statistics, phase transitions, and spin models.
Learning outcome
After completing the course, students should:
K1: Have a solid understanding of core concepts in statistical physics and thermodynamics, and comprehend the connection between microstates and macrostates in thermodynamic systems.
F1: Be able to compute thermodynamic quantities and correlation functions in equilibrium for both quantum mechanical and classical models in statistical mechanics, using various techniques and approximations.
F2: Be capable of performing simple numerical Monte Carlo simulations of basic statistical physics models.
G1: Understand the broad range of applications of statistical physics in various fields of science and in everyday life.
Required prerequisite knowledge
Recommended prerequisites
Exam
Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
---|---|---|---|---|
Oral exam | 1/1 | 30 Minutes | Letter grades |
The oral exam is individual.
Coursework requirements
Course teacher(s)
Course coordinator:
Eero Aleksi KurkelaHead of Department:
Bjørn Henrik AuestadMethod of work
6 hours lectures/ exercises per week. Language: English.
Overlapping courses
Course | Reduction (SP) |
---|---|
Statistical Physics and Solid State Physics (FYS310_1) | 5 |