Quantum and Thermal Physics (PHYC20012)

Undergraduate level 2Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

Availability
Semester 1
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This subject surveys the foundations of Thermal Physics and Classical Mechanics and develops the fundamental principles of Quantum Mechanics. Topics in Thermal Physics include the kinetic theory of gases, the classical laws of thermodynamics, temperature, work, heat, chemical thermodynamics and chemical potential, heat engines, refrigerators, Gibbs and Helmholtz free energies and phase changes. Topics in Classical Mechanics include a review of Newton’s Laws, the Principle of Least Action, Lagrange’s equations, Hamilton’s equations and the Legendre transform. These principles will be illustrated by application to the simple harmonic oscillator. Topics in Quantum Physics include the inadequacies of Classical Physics, matter waves and quantum behaviour, one-dimensional quantum systems, expectation values, observables, operators, quantum tunnelling, and the quantization of three-dimensional systems.

Intended learning outcomes

To challenge students to expand their knowledge of the fundamental physical principles that underpin the behaviour of matter from microscopic to macroscopic length scales and to develop their capacity to:



  • discuss the key observations and events that led to the development of quantum mechanics from a foundation of thermal physics and classical mechanics;
  • discuss the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics and the critical aspects of quantum theory that distinguish it from the classical theories of thermodynamics and mechanics;
  • apply the principles of thermal, classical and quantum physics to the analysis of simple physical, chemical or mechanical problems.

Generic skills

A student who completes this subject should be able to:

  • Explain their understanding of physics principles and applications lucidly, both in writing and orally;
  • Describe the experimental and observational basis of the physical principles presented in the subject, both in writing and orally;
  • Participate as an effective member of a group in tutorial discussions and study groups;
  • Think independently and analytically and direct his or her own learning;
  • Manage time effectively in order to be prepared for regular tutorial classes, tests, the examination and to complete assignments.

Last updated: 20 March 2025

Eligibility and requirements

Prerequisites

One of:

Code Name Teaching period Credit Points
PHYC10001 Physics 1: Advanced
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
PHYC10003 Physics 1
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
PHYC10005 Physics 1: Fundamentals
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5

And one of:

Code Name Teaching period Credit Points
PHYC10002 Physics 2: Advanced
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
PHYC10004 Physics 2: Physical Science & Technology
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
PHYC10006 Physics 2: Life Sciences & Environment
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5

And one of:

Code Name Teaching period Credit Points
MAST10006 Calculus 2
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
MAST10009 Accelerated Mathematics 2
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5

And one of (may be taken concurrently):

Code Name Teaching period Credit Points
MAST10007 Linear Algebra
Semester 2 (On Campus - Parkville)
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
Summer Term (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5
MAST10008 Accelerated Mathematics 1
Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville)
 12.5

Corequisites

None

Non-allowed subjects

None

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.

Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home

Last updated: 20 March 2025

Assessment

Additional details

Three written assignments requiring a total of up to twenty-four hours of work outside class time during the semester to be submitted and assessed early, mid and late semester (30%, 10% for each assignment). A three hour written examination during the examination period (70%).

Last updated: 20 March 2025

Dates & times

  • Semester 1
    Principal coordinatorJeffrey McCallum
    Mode of deliveryOn Campus (Parkville)
    Contact hours48 hours comprising 36 hours of lectures and 12 hours of tutorials.
    Total time commitment170 hours
    Teaching period27 February 2017 to 28 May 2017
    Last self-enrol date10 March 2017
    Census date31 March 2017
    Last date to withdraw without fail 5 May 2017
    Assessment period ends23 June 2017

    Semester 1 contact information

    jeffreym@unimelb.edu.au, d.jamieson@unimelb.edu.au

Time commitment details

170 Hours

Last updated: 20 March 2025

Further information

Last updated: 20 March 2025