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402-2214-10L 6 Credits BSC D-PHYS
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Theory of Heat

Theorie der Wärme

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Gian Michele Graf
Nur für Physik BSc, Studienreglement 2021.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:37:34

Abstract

The first (longer) part of the course treats phenomenological thermodynamics. This comprises basic notions such as heat and entropy, as well as the laws of thermodynamics. The second (shorter) part of the course is devoted to classical statistical mechanics. It discusses basic notions such as statistical ensembles.

Objective

Develop a physical understanding for thermodynamic phenomena and first contact with statistical descriptions. Equilibrium thermodynamics as described via state variables. Phase transformations, such as liquid-gas or ferromagnetic-paramagnetic transition. Application of mathematical concepts such as theory of functions of many variables, Legendre transformation, statistical sums. Preparation for (quantum-) statistical mechanics.

Content

The lecture provides an introduction to phenomenological thermodynamics and classical statistical mechanics. In phenomenological thermodynamics, thermodynamical systems are described from a macroscopic perspective, using for instance properties such as the pressure or the volume of a gas. Based on this one may then introduce notions such as temperature, heat, and entropy, and characterise their properties in terms of fundamental laws. In this context, concepts such as equilibrium states, thermodynamical potentials, or Carnot processes are discussed. Conversely, in statistical mechanics one starts with microscopic considerations and then derives macroscopic properties via statistical arguments. The discussion comprises concepts such as statistical ensembles, partition functions, and the equipartition theorem. Example applications of the theory include the study of heat engines or phase transitions.

General Information

Language
German
Levels
BSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 180 minutes
Aids
ein handbeschriebenes A4-Blatt (beidseitig)

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Theorie der Wärme
  • Mon 13:45-14:30 (HPV G 4)
  • Tue 11:45-13:30 (HPV G 4)
3 h weekly
exercise Theorie der Wärme
  • Tue 13:45-15:30 (HCI G 7)
  • Tue 13:45-15:30 (HIL D 10.2)
  • Tue 13:45-15:30 (HIL D 60.1)
  • Tue 13:45-15:30 (HIT F 31.2)
  • Tue 13:45-15:30 (HPK D 3)
  • Tue 13:45-15:30 (HPL D 34)
2 h weekly

Offered In