Course Overview
Instructor: Adrian Hightower; HSC 117; x2826; hightower@oxy.edu, http://faculty.oxy.edu/hightower/
Meeting Times: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10:30 – 11:25 Fowler 110
Office Hours: Monday and Wednesday 1:30 - 3:00 PM or by appointment.
Website: http://departments.oxy.edu/physics/Phys250/
Text Book:
Required: Thermal Physics, by Daniel V. Schroeder ISBN: 0201380277
Recommended: Thermal Physics, 2nd ed. by Charles Kittel ISBN: 0716710889
Thermal Physics, 2nd ed. by Herbert Callen ISBN: 0471862568
The Goal: The goal of Physics 250 is to introduce students to the subjects of Thermal Dynamics and Statistical Mechanics. By the end of this course students will acquire:
- Physics Framework - Students will be able to categorize physical systems in terms of constrained microstates and macrostates.
- Mathematical Tools – Students will be able to perform calculations utilizing the calculus, probability and statistics associated with this subject.
- Vocabulary – Students will be comfortable with the vocabulary used in Thermal Dynamics and Statistical Mechanics.
- Familiarity with Textbook – Students will be intimately acquainted with required text book and be able to utilize it as a resource in the future.
The Course Flavor: Class time will be used to clarify, refine and elaborate on material presented in the assigned reading. Students are responsible for completing the assigned reading before the class period. Thermal Dynamics and Statistical Mechanics are challenging subjects that require dedicated study outside of the classroom.
