FSI3070 Statistical Mechanics 7.5 credits

Formal background of statistical mechanics. Classical simple fluids. Integral equation for correlation functions. Phase transitions. Mean field theory. The Ising model. Analytical solutions. Renormalization theory. Percolation and disorder.

After completed course, the PhD student should be able to:

• describe, use and develop mean field theory for first and second order phase transitions.
• realize the limitations of mean field theory.
• realize the importance and strength of scaling arguments and be able to use such arguments.
• perform real space renormalization for simple models.
• have knowledge about and be able to use the fundamental concepts in the theory of classical fluids.
• have knowledge about the structure of the solutions to a small number of analytically solvable models.

Statistical physics.

M. Plischke & B. Bergersen: Equilibrium Statistical Physics, 3rd edition, World Scientific, 2006.

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

• TEN1 - Exam, 7.5 credits, grading scale: P, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

One written exam, home exercises to hand in.

Egor Babaev

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.