Course content

Thermodynamics:

Pressure. The energy concept. Temperature. First and Second law of thermodynamics. Work, heat and internal energy. Equations of state, reversible and irreversible processes, entropy, thermodynamic potentials. Heat engines and refrigerators. Phase transitions. Ideal mixtures.

Kinetic theory of gases:

Maxwell's velocity distribution. Transport processes.

Statistical mechanics:

Microstates and statistical description. The Boltzmann factor. The equipartition theorem. Planck's radiation law.

Learning outcome

The course provides a basic understanding of how systems in thermal equilibrium can be described using thermodynamics, kinetic gas theory and elementary statistical mechanics.

Knowledge.

The candidate should have knowledge of:

• A wide range of methods from thermal and statistical physics with utility across many disciplines and fields

• Fundamental thermal problems with known solution methods

• Approach methods for complex thermal problems without a known solution

Skills.

The candidate should be able to:

• Quantitatively describe systems in thermal equilibrium using methods from thermodynamics and statistical physics

• Design simple heat and power and refrigeration machines

• Conduct and analyze basic experiments and measurements in thermal physics

General competence.

The candidate should be able to:

• Explain the role of thermal physics in a societal perspective, including climate and environmental challenges

• Explain the connection between thermal physics and other fundamental branches of physics

• Analyze problems in thermal physics with mathematical and numerical methods, including ICT tools.

The course will primarily contribute to the areas of competence K1 (Demonstrating professional knowledge and a professionally based perspective), K2 (Analysis of issues and systems), K4 (Application of methods and tools), K7 (Acquisition and critical assessment of information), K8 (Lifelong learning).

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, calculation exercises, lab exercises.

The students' expected work effort in the course is 225 hours.

Required Activities

• Numerical Exercises

• Laboratory Exercises

Compulsory assignments

• Laboratory exercises
• Calculation exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Physics knowledge equivalent to FY1010 Physics Basic Course or TFY4010 Physics Basic Course and TFY4030 Electricity and Magnetism. Mathematics knowledge including calculus, linear algebra and differential equations and multivariable analysis and vector analysis.

Course materials

P. C. Hemmer, Termisk fysikk, Tapir Akademisk Forlag, 2. utgave 2002. D. V. Schroeder, An Introduction to Thermal Physics, Oxford University Press, 2021.

Credit reductions