First course in a two-quarter sequence in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. Topics include simple thermodynamic systems, work, heat and the first law of thermodynamics, ideal gases, the second law of thermodynamics, entropy, enthalpy, Helmhotz and Gibb's functions, TdS equations, heat capacity, and introductory statistical mechanics. PH 216 and MA 234. Topics include a continuation of statistical mechanics, higher order phase transitions, chemical equilibrium, heterogeneous systems, Thomson effect, cryogenics, nuclear magnetism and the third law of thermodynamics. PH 494 Directed Studies 2-6 cr Directed research under the supervision of a faculty member.
Topics generally coincide with the research interest of the supervising faculty member.
Areas of directed research may include atomic collisions, atom trapping, experimental general relativity, experimental molecular spectroscopy, and experimental particle physics.