Statistical Physics II
When large collection of atoms or molecules interact with each other, interesting phenomena, such as phase transitions, can take place. In this course you will learn the mathematical machinery needed to model such complex systems, and how it can be used not only to understand phase changes in nature but also diverse phenomena in other fields.
The course builds on thermal and statistical physics, and is intended for anyone with an interest in modern theoretical physics. The course gives an introduction to important ideas and techniques for studying average thermal properties of interacting systems. The main focus is on the rich variation of different phases and phase transitions in nature, ranging from classical fluids at high temperature to quantum liquids at low temperature. The basic approach is to start from a microscopic model, and then make a suitable elimination of degrees of freedom on short length scales to obtain a new model that applies on a longer length scale. This transformation is called the Renormalization Group (RG), and is a central method in modern statistical physics. The RG leads to the concepts of order parameters and spontaneously broken symmetries as unifying concepts of great importance in many different areas of physics. We will study a number of models which have a wide range of applications in condensed matter physics, particle physics, biology and economy. In the course both the basic ideas, models and techniques of modern statistical physics will be discussed, as well as a wide range of important applications. This course is given by KTH, but can be taken by Stockholm University students.
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Course structure
This is a second cycle course given at half speed during daytime. This course is given by KTH, but can be taken by Stockholm University students.
Teaching format
The teaching consists of lectures and problem solving exercises.
Assessment
The course is examined through written examination under KTH regulations.
Examiner
Supriya Krishnamurthy
Phone: +468 5537 8741
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Schedule
The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course.The schedule is available on KTH course page for SI2510 . If you cannot find the schedule please contact the course coordinator at Stockholm University. Contact information can be found further down on this web page.
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Course literature
Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course.
M. Plischke & B. Bergersen: Equilibrium Statistical Physics, 3rd edition.
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Course reports
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More information
When can I apply?
Registration is open from mid-March to mid-April for courses that run in the fall, and from mid-September to mid-October for courses that run in the spring.
Please note that many courses open for late registration in mid-July for courses in the autumn term and in mid-December for courses in the spring term.
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Contact
Course coordinator at Stockholm University:
Supriya Krishnamurthy, phone: +468 5537 8741, e-mail: Supriya.Krishnamurthy@fysik.su.seAcademic advisor at the Department of Physics: studievagledare@fysik.su.se
Student office: studentexp@fysik.su.se
