PHYC 6261

Statistical mechanics describes the equilibrium properties of systems. Really it is about how to model properties of soft-systems in the face of fluctuations. We will start with a review of the basic formalism, then discuss mean-field theories, critical phenomenon, diffusion, and stochastic models. Depending on interest and time, we may also discuss opological defects, non-equilibrium phenomenon, and computational techniques. Physical examples and simple models will be discussed throughout the course.