The physics of large assemblies of particles. Elements of probability
theory, information theory and quantum mechanics are used to develop
a purely statistical theory for dealing with these physical systems
at a microscopic level. Emphasis is placed upon the derivation and
use of the canonical probability distribution in physical systems in
thermal equilibrium. Physical systems dealt with include the ideal
and non-ideal gas, paramagnetism, black-body radiation, Bose-Einstein
condensation, and free electron theory of metals.
Prereq: Phys
2413
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