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Advanced Physical Chemistry: Statistical Thermodynamics
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:06:24
Abstract
Introduction to statistical mechanics and thermodynamics. Prediction of thermodynamic and kinetic properties from molecular data. Spin thermodynamics and density operator formalism.
Objective
Introduction to statistical mechanics and thermodynamics. Prediction of thermodynamic and kinetic properties from molecular data.
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.
Literature
Discussed in the lecture
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DS , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 30 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Advanced Physical Chemistry: Statistical Thermodynamics |
|
3 h weekly |