Statistical Mechanics preparedness ?

In summary, a third year physics major is considering taking Statistical Mechanics this semester, but is concerned about lacking the pre-requisites of Quantum Mechanics 1. Their advisor has suggested they can override this pre-req and the recommended textbook is Thermal Physics by Kittel. The student is unsure if their previous knowledge of quantum from a sophomore level class will be enough, but others have successfully taken both courses concurrently.
  • #1
lsaldana
57
0
Statistical Mechanics preparedness...?

Hello, I am a third year physics major having trouble deciding wether to take Statistical Mechanics this Spring semester. The problem is that there are 2 pre-requisites, Quantum Mechanics 1 and Thermodynamics, and I am only taking Thermodynamics this semester and I'm doing good. I could wait to take Statistical Mechanics one more year but I'm worried on how this will affect my chances at doing good at the physics GRE (which I plan to take next fall sometime). My advisor said he could sign me up and override the Quantum 1 pre-req since I will have thermo done. The book the professor will probably use is Thermal Physics by George Kittel (2nd edition). I've been told that other students do this often but I'm not sure since the only introduction to Quantum I have is from my modern physics class (sophomore level) and it's not very rigorous. Any advice? Thanks.

Course description: The statistical basis of thermodynamics is developed. Topics include entropy and the second law, partition functions and free energy, systems of variable particle number, and quantum statistics.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2


Thermal Physics by Kittel and Kroemer is a typical undergraduate book.

The main ideas from quantum are basically a 1D infinite well, distinguishable particles, indistinguishable particles (fermions/bosons), and at least some concept of spin.

Really most of these ideas are developed solely within the book. There will be minor things that you probably won't pick up but it shouldn't hinder you from successfully learning all of the main points of the book (in my experience even people that have had quantum don't pick up on some of the more subtle points).

Also if it makes you feel better typically people at my school usually take quantum and stat. mech. concurrently and usually learn the quantum based stuff before they do in quantum class.
 
  • #3


Georgia Tech?
 
  • #4


Yeah I'm at Tech and I signed up after all. Google has part of the Kittel book uploaded so that helped me decide.
 
  • #5


I'm at Tech and I took statistical mechanics at the same time as quantum 1 and was just fine. It's kind of a silly pre-req.
 

Related to Statistical Mechanics preparedness ?

1. What is Statistical Mechanics preparedness?

Statistical Mechanics preparedness is the study of how systems of a large number of particles behave and interact with each other. It involves using statistical methods to understand the macroscopic properties of these systems based on the microscopic behavior of individual particles.

2. Why is Statistical Mechanics preparedness important?

Statistical Mechanics preparedness is important because it allows us to predict and understand the behavior of complex systems, such as gases, liquids, and solids. It also provides a framework for studying phase transitions, critical phenomena, and the thermodynamic properties of matter.

3. What are the key principles of Statistical Mechanics preparedness?

The key principles of Statistical Mechanics preparedness include the concept of statistical ensembles, the use of probability distributions to describe the behavior of systems, and the application of thermodynamics to understand the equilibrium properties of macroscopic systems.

4. What are some real-world applications of Statistical Mechanics preparedness?

Statistical Mechanics preparedness has many real-world applications, including in materials science, chemistry, and engineering. It is used to study the properties of materials, such as phase transitions, thermal conductivity, and electrical conductivity. It also has applications in fields such as atmospheric science, biophysics, and economics.

5. What are some common tools and techniques used in Statistical Mechanics preparedness?

Some common tools and techniques used in Statistical Mechanics preparedness include Monte Carlo simulations, molecular dynamics simulations, and the use of partition functions and statistical ensembles to calculate thermodynamic properties. Other techniques, such as mean field theory and renormalization group theory, are also used to study phase transitions and critical phenomena.

Similar threads

How much statistical mechanics is enough for a physicist?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
6
Views
1K
Studying Should I first study the math or math and physics at the same time?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
9
Views
3K
Courses How much Chemistry should I take to prepare for Biophysics PhD?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
2
Views
962
Courses Course choices for a student interested in structural biology
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
1
Views
629
Second year Physics student reading list questions
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
1
Views
911
Re-Learn Math for Physics Olympiad
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
1
Views
997
Admissions Advice for an Engineer seeking a Masters in Physics in Germany
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
2
Views
885
Courses Statistical Physics vs QFT vs General relativity
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
6
Views
1K
QM and Statistical mechanics
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
2
Views
992
How deep does thermodynamics go? And how much would a chemist know?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
6
Views
835

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top