Prerequisites

As specified.

Learning Outcomes and Assessment

This course covers the foundations of classical thermodynamics and gives an introduction to the principles of statistical thermodynamics. In particular it aims to develop a good understanding of the concept of entropy.  The kinetic theory of gases (including transport properties), phase transitions and thermal radiation are considered in the light of this foundation.   

Synopsis

Fundamentals: Nature and scope of thermodynamics, thermodynamic variables; functions of state; zeroth law; concept of temperature; ideal gases; temperature scales; equations of state; work and heat; exact and inexact differentials; first law; heat capacities; reversible and irreversible changes; isothermal and adiabatic expansions of ideal gases.

Second Law and Entropy:  Carnot cycle and Carnot's theorem; Clausius’ theorem; entropy and its increase; Clausius and Kelvin formulations of second law; definition of thermodynamic temperature;  heat engines, pumps and refrigerators; efficiency.

Analytical Thermodynamics: Thermodynamic potentials, relation to global entropy changes and uses; Maxwell relations and their applications.

Phase Changes:  Phase diagram of real gases; van der Waals’ equation; conditions for equilibrium; latent heat; Clausius-Clapeyron equation. 

Third Law: Entropy at low temperatures; adiabatic demagnetisation; unattainability of absolute zero.

Thermodynamics of Radiation: Black body radiation; pressure and energy density; Kirchhoff’s Law; Stefan-Boltzmann Law; Planck’s Law.

Kinetic Gas theory:  Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution; flux; barometric height distribution; degrees of freedom and heat capacity; transport properties

BOOKS

The course will mainly follow the book “Concepts in Thermal Physics” S.J. Blundell & K.M. Blundell (Oxford University Press).

For further reading:

“Equilibrium Thermodynamics” Adkins C J (3rd edn CUP 1983).

“Thermodynamics and an Introduction to Thermostatistics” H. P. Callen (John Wiley & Sons 1985).

"Molecular Driving Forces: Statistical Thermodynamics in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Nanoscience", Dill, K.A. and Bromberg, S. (Garland Science 2010)

References

See synopsis.