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529-0433-00L 4 Credits
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Physical Chemistry VI: Statistical Thermodynamics

Physikalische Chemie VI

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. em. Dr. Beat H. Meier
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 14:55:05

Abstract

Introduction to statistical mechanics and thermodynamics. Prediction of thermodynamic and kinetic properties from molecular data.

Objective

Grundlagen der statistischen Thermodynamik

Content

Basics of statistical mechanics and thermodynamics of classical and quantum systems. Concept of ensembles, microcanonical and canonical ensembles, ergodic theorem. Molecular and canonical partition functions and their connection with classical thermodynamics. Translational, rotational, vibrational, electronic and nuclear spin partition functions of gasses. Determination of the equilibrium constants of gas phase reactions. Transition state theory and its connection with collision theory. Description of ideal gasses and ideal crystals. Classical statistical mechanics: Description in phase space. Statistical mechanics of quantum systems: Ensembles of quantum systems, density matrix, entropy. Thermodynamics vs. quantum mechanics: deterministic quantum mechanical time development and irreversible time development.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Handed out in the lecture.

General Information

Language
German
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Physikalische Chemie VI
  • Mon 07:45-09:30 (HCI H 8.1)
  • Tue 07:45-08:30 (HCI E 8)
  • Tue 07:45-08:30 (HCI F 8)
  • Tue 07:45-08:30 (HCI H 8.1)
3 h weekly

Offered In