FSI3075 Non-Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics 7.5 credits

Irreversibility and the second law. Brownian motion: random walks, Langevin equation, Fokker-Planck equation, functional integrals. Stochastic processes in physics: master equations, generating functions, Doi formalism. The Boltzmann equation: the H-theorem and irreversibility. conservation laws and hydrodynamics. Linear response theory: Kubo formula, fluctuation-dissipation theorem, Onsager relations.

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

• have a broad overview of concepts, methods and approaches within non-equilibrium statistical mechanics.
• be able to model new physical situations using the methods exemplified in the course.
• be able to generalize and apply the methods to new problems.
• have gained insights into more advanced methods which touch upon modern research.

Introductory thermodynamics and statistical physics, and some quantum mechanics.

Lecture notes will be available.

• INL1 - Assignments, 5.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
• TEN1 - Oral exam, 2.5 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.

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

Solution of exercises, which are to be discussed with the examiner. PhD students will have an oral exam.

Yunxiang Liao

• 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.