In this course, the statistical mechanics approach is introduced and examples of applications to micro- and nano-fluidics problems are discussed. The first part of the course is dedicated to the Hamilton formalism and the Louville equations. Then, the classical statistical mechanics is introduced (microcanonical and canonical ensemble). Ideal gas thermodynamics is derived using the canonical ensemble. The last part of the course is dedicated to example of application of statistical mechanics to fluid dynamics problem such as, wetting, Brownian motion of a colloid and particle transport in nanofluidic devices. Finally, we will provide an introduction to Molecular Dynamics simulations for the different applications mentioned.
FSG3136 Statistical mechanics for engineers 5.0 credits
Information per course offering
Course offerings are missing for current or upcoming semesters.
Course syllabus as PDF
Please note: all information from the Course syllabus is available on this page in an accessible format.
Course syllabus FSG3136 (Autumn 2018–)Headings with content from the Course syllabus FSG3136 (Autumn 2018–) are denoted with an asterisk ( )
Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
Intended learning outcomes
After completing this course the student should manage to:
- describe the classical statistical mechanics framework and its connection with thermodynamics
- derive and apply the equipartition theorem
- discuss the ideal gas in the framework of classical statistical mechanics
- describe the Brownian motion of a colloid
- discuss application of statistical mechanics to micro and nanofluidics (e.g. electrohydrodynamics, transport in narrow pores, wetting)
Literature and preparations
Specific prerequisites
The course assumes that the students have an undergraduate knowledge of Thermodynamics and Newtonian mechanics.
Recommended prerequisites
The course assumes that the students have an undergraduate knowledge of Thermodynamics and Newtonian mechanics.
Literature
--Huang, Kerson. "Statistical Mechanics, 2nd." Edition (New York: John Wiley & Sons) (1987).
Cap 1, 6, 7.1,7.2
--San Miguel, Maxi, and Raul Toral. "Stochastic effects in physical systems." Instabilities and nonequilibrium structures VI5 (2000): 35-127. Cap 1, 2.1
--Your own lecture notes and other distributed course material
Examination and completion
Grading scale
P, F
Examination
- PRO1 - Project, 2.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
- TEN1 - Examination, 3.0 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.
If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.
Other requirements for final grade
Project work with final presentation in groups of 2. Oral exam.
PRO1 - Project, 2. Grade scale: P, F
TEN1 - Examination, 3, grade scale: P, F
Examiner
Ethical approach
- 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.
Further information
Course room in Canvas
Registered students find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas. A link to the course room can be found under the tab Studies in the Personal menu at the start of the course.
Offered by
Education cycle
Third cycle