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SI2520 Nonequilibrium Statistical Mechanics 7.5 credits

Nonequilibrium situations are far more common in nature than equilibrium ones. This course gives an introduction to the common ideas and different approaches for studying systems in statistical mechanics that are not in equilibrium, i.e.- with a time dependence in the description of the system. We begin with a review of the origin of irreversibility and the second law of thermodynamics, which are at the foundations of equilibrium statistical mechanics. Then various different techniques for studying non-equilibrium situations follows, which treat the problem on different levels of detail. The main part of the course considers effective descriptions in terms of stochastic processes, closely related to simple random walk problems. We also discuss the Boltzmann equation, which provides a microscopic framework for studying transport in dilute systems, and leads up to coarse-grained hydrodynamic descriptions on longer length scales. Finally, we discuss the linear regime close to equilibrium, where it is possible to obtain the linear response of the system from its equilibrium fluctuations, via the fluctuation-dissipation theorem.

Choose semester and course offering

Choose semester and course offering to see current information and more about the course, such as course syllabus, study period, and application information.

Application

For course offering

Spring 2025 Start 14 Jan 2025 programme students

Application code

61134

Headings with content from the Course syllabus SI2520 (Spring 2022–) are denoted with an asterisk ( )

Content and learning outcomes

Course contents

  • 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.

Intended learning outcomes

After the course you shall

  • 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.

Literature and preparations

Specific prerequisites

English B / English 6

Recommended prerequisites

Introductory thermodynamics and statistical physics, and some quantum mechanics.

Equipment

No information inserted

Literature

No information inserted

Examination and completion

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

Grading scale

A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Examination

  • TEN1 - Examination, 7.5 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, 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.

Other requirements for final grade

Solution of exercises, which are to be discussed with the examiner (TEN1; 7,5 university credits).

Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination

No information inserted

Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination

No information inserted

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

Main field of study

Physics

Education cycle

Second cycle

Add-on studies

No information inserted

Contact

Jens Bardarson (bardarson@kth.se)

Supplementary information

Reading course if there are few participants.