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Phase Transitions and Critical Phenomena
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:29:37
Abstract
This lecture will treat key subjects related to phase transitions and critical phenomena, in particular in low dimensional systems, where the Landau theory and the renormalization group must be amended to include topological aspects.
Objective
The students are able to understand the main physical ideas driving phase transitions.
Content
This lecture will treat key subjects related to phase transitions and critical phenomena, in particular in low dimensional systems, where the Landau theory and the renormalization group must be amended to include topological aspects. The method of lecturing will be one where the practical aspects of the various approaches (Landau theory, renormalization group, topological aspects) will play a more important role that the formal treatment. Students which intend to use this lecture for their didactical education will be asked to work out and present a special topic in the form of a seminar.
Resources
Lecture Notes
A manuscript will be provided.
Literature
Fluctuation theory of phase transitions, A.Z.Patashinskii, V.L. Pokrovskii, Inter. Series in Natural Philosophy, Vol. 98, Pergamon Press, London (1979) (Italian version still available and cheap, Teoria delle fluttuazioni nelle transizioni di fase, Editori Riuniti Edizioni Mir, Via Serchio, 9/11-00198 Roma)
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 20 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Phase Transitions and Critical Phenomena |
|
2 h weekly |
| exercise | Phase Transitions and Critical Phenomena |
|
1 h weekly |