Thermal Physics

To most students, the title of this course appears rather simplified and non-threatening. Yet, the statistical nature of energy flow (as work or heat) is quite complex and requires understanding the meaning of the mathematics utilized. Together, the concepts and mathematics of this course build an intuition into the inner workings of substances of all kinds, often bridging the macroscopic and quantum worlds.

The topics discussed in thermal physics (statistical mechanics or thermodynamics) contain many of the common misconceptions of science. It is imperitive that the student be made aware of these and leave with an appreciation for necessity of simple statements like, "temperature is not heat". We'll spend some time approaching such misconceptions.

Course Mechanics.

The majority of the course is done via a hybrid lecture style, where some lecture is followed by some application or activity that requires the student (alone or in groups) to consider the material in an ongoing manner. Seeing is not enough for complicated mathematics, especially when the mathematics are not founded in concept but, instead, algorithm. Thus, in class activities represent a solid method of assessing your own understanding and ability to apply what is discussed.