PHYC 3200
Thermodynamics
Lec 01 selected
An introduction to the basic concepts and laws of thermodynamics. There will be a short survey of required Mathematics (partial derivatives). Topics include: thermometry, equations of state, energy and entropy, thermodynamic potentials, heat engines, thermodynamic efficiency and phase transitions.
Sections
Lecture
Lec 01
Mon, Wed, Fri 10:35-11:25
From the syllabus
From the Fall 2025 syllabus by Thomas J. Duck and Cameron Nickerson. Open the PDF
Grading
17.5%Midterm 1Oct 28
17.5%Midterm 2Nov 25
50%Final examCumulative
15%AssignmentsWeekly
Textbooks
- Thermodynamics and an Introduction to Thermostatistics, Herbert B. Callen (optional)
- Thermodynamics, E. Fermi (optional)
- Understanding Thermodynamics, H. C. Van Ness (optional)
Course rules
- Attendance
- Regular attendance is required; notify Prof. Duck by email before expected absences.
- Late work
- Extensions are at Prof. Duck’s discretion; late assignments are not accepted after graded work is returned.
- Missed exams
- Missed midterms or final exams require a makeup; only one absence declaration is accepted for midterms.
- Assignments
- Submitted work must be written independently; discuss homework but do not use generative AI to solve problems.
- Cell phones
- Silence and put away phones in class; step outside to take calls or send messages.
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