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151-0420-00L 4 Credits MSC D-MATH , D-MAVT

Statistical Mechanics of Elasticity

Does not take place this semester.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:23:56

Abstract

Introduction to statistical mechanics applied to elasticity for engineers. Treatment of polymers and crystalline solids, notions of ensembles, phase spaces, partitions functions, derivation of constitutive relations, polymer chain statistics, polymer networks, harmonic and quasi-harmonic crystalline solids, limitations of classical methods and quantum mechanical influences.

Objective

To provide a modern introduction to the application of statistical mechanics to the determination of constitutive relations for elastic solids.

Content

Topics and Description 1 Overview of thermo-elasticity from the continuum viewpoint. 2 Concepts of state functions in thermo-mechanics. 3 Introduction to Hamiltonian mechanics. 4 Statistics in statistical mechanics, Phase functions and time av- erages. 5 Phase space dynamics of isolated systems, weakly interacting systems. 6 Canonical distributions. 7 Concepts of temperature, local equilibrium processes, phase functions for generalized forces. 8 First and second laws of thermodynamics. 9 Partition function relations, continuum formulations of nonuni- form processes. 10 Equipartition and alternative definitions of entropy, applications to gases. 11 Crystal elasticity, Bravais lattices, harmonic and quasi-harmonic approximations to crystals. 12 Rubber elasticity of single chains and networks. 13 Quantum mechanical influences on elasticity.

Resources

Literature

Statistical Mechanics of Elasticity, J.H. Weiner, Dover press, 2002 (or wiley Press 1983)

General Information

Language
English (lecture), German (exercise)
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Statistical Mechanics of Elasticity
Does not take place this semester.
No time listed 2 h weekly
exercise Statistical Mechanics of Elasticity
Does not take place this semester.
No time listed 1 h weekly

Offered In