Students majoring in Physics must take at least one of KYA322 and KYA323.
This unit is offered in odd numbered years.
Introduction
The objective of this course is to provide a thorough grounding in statistical physics and solid state physics. Statistical physics describes the structure of bulk matter - solids, liquids, gases, plasmas - in terms of very general assumptions about the behaviour of the basic constituents. It has close ties with both kinetic theory and thermodynamics but applies also to quantum systems. You will study both classical (Maxwell-Boltzmann) and quantum (Bose-Einstein, Fermi-Dirac) statistics, and a wide variety of their applications. Solid state, or condensed matter physics builds on these topics and includes crystal structure, reciprocal lattices, lattice vibrations, and thermal properties of solids. You will study the electric and magnetic properties of solids, and the technological applications of phenomena such as semiconductors and superconductivity.
Summary
| Unit name | Statistical Physics and Solid State Physics |
| Unit code | KYA322 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences |
| Discipline | Physics |
| Coordinator | Doctor Andy McCulloch |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Advanced |
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Learning Outcomes
- Solve problems in many-body and statistical physics using physical principles and theories.
- Solve problems in solid state/condensed matter physics using physical principles and theories.
- Communicate scientific information to expert and non-expert audiences by oral, written, and graphical means.
- Explain the application of statistical and solid state/condensed matter physics to a range of real-world scenarios.
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Requisites
Prerequisites
KYA211 Waves and Kinetic Theory AND KYA212 Electromagnetism and Thermodynamics AND KMA252 Calculus and Applications 2 AND KMA254 Linear Algebra and Differential EquationsTeaching
| Teaching Pattern | 3 lectures, 1 tutorial weekly, 36 lab hrs total |
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| Assessment | Mid-semester Test (15%)|Oral Examination (15%)|Problem Set Assignments (30%)|Examination (40%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.