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Statistical Mechanics (PHYC90010)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
About this subject
- Overview
- Eligibility and requirements
- Assessment
- Dates and times
- Further information
- Timetable(opens in new window)
Contact information
Semester 1
Email: msc@physics.unimelb.edu.au
Overview
Availability | Semester 1 |
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Fees | Look up fees |
This subject provides an advanced introduction to the mathematical theory of collective phenomena in complex, many-body systems, in equilibrium and far from equilibrium, with an emphasis on critical phenomena and the emergence of long-range order. Specific topics may include phase transitions, transfer matrices, mean-field theory, Landau-Ginzburg theory, renormalization group, diffusive stochastic processes (Fokker-Planck equations), birth-death processes (master equations), kinetic transport, and spatio-temporal pattern formation in unstable nonlinear systems (bifurcations, chaos, reaction-diffusion equations). Examples are drawn from physics, chemistry, biology, and the social sciences.
Intended learning outcomes
The objectives of this subject are:
- to challenge the students to expand their knowledge of fundamental physical principles;
- to broaden their appreciation of how statistical mechanics integrates into the discipline of physics overall;
- to develop their capacity to explain the emergence of long-range order in complex, many-bodysystems;
- to appreciate the distinction between equilibrium and far-from-equilibrium dynamics in these systems;
- to solve quantitative problems using the canonical mathematical techniques of statistical mechanics;
- to provide the foundation for more advanced studies in statistical mechanics.
Generic skills
At the completion of this subject, students should have gained skills in:
- analysing how to solve a problem by applying simple fundamental laws to more complicated situations;
- applying abstract concepts to real-world situations;
- solving relatively complicated problems using approximations;
- participating as an effective member of a group in discussions and collaborative assignments;
- managing time effectively in order to be prepared for group discussions and undertake the assignments and exam.
Last updated: 3 November 2022
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
A third year subject in statistical physics equivalent to
Code | Name | Teaching period | Credit Points |
---|---|---|---|
PHYC30017 | Statistical Physics | Semester 2 (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.
This subject requires all students to actively and safely participate in laboratory activities. Students who feel their disability may impact upon their participation are encouraged to discuss this matter with the Subject Coordinator and Student Equity and Disability Support.
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: 3 November 2022
Assessment
Additional details
Four assignments totalling up to 48 pages of written work (40%), spaced equally during the semester, plus one 4-hour end-of-semester written examination (60%).
Last updated: 3 November 2022
Dates & times
- Semester 1
Principal coordinator Jeffrey McCallum Mode of delivery On Campus (Parkville) Contact hours TBA Total time commitment 170 hours Teaching period 27 February 2017 to 28 May 2017 Last self-enrol date 10 March 2017 Census date 31 March 2017 Last date to withdraw without fail 5 May 2017 Assessment period ends 23 June 2017 Semester 1 contact information
Email: msc@physics.unimelb.edu.au
Time commitment details
170 hours
Last updated: 3 November 2022
Further information
- Texts
Prescribed texts
None
Recommended texts and other resources
None
- Subject notes
Access to an internet-enabled computer may be useful for assignment completion.
- Related Handbook entries
This subject contributes to the following:
Type Name Course Master of Science (Physics) Informal specialisation Physics Major Physics - Available through the Community Access Program
About the Community Access Program (CAP)
This subject is available through the Community Access Program (also called Single Subject Studies) which allows you to enrol in single subjects offered by the University of Melbourne, without the commitment required to complete a whole degree.
Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.
Last updated: 3 November 2022