Phys 370: Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics (33666) TTh 9:35-10:50, HSS 275. This is a course for junior physics and astronomy majors, introducing thermal physics both from the classical point of view and via statistical mechanics.

Prerequisites: Three semesters of lower-division physics with calculus.

Instructor: Roger Bland - office Th 316, phone 338-2433; lab Th 208, phone 338-1969; home phone 664-3982. Office hours TBA or by email (bland@stars.sfsu.edu.

Text: Introduction to Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics, by Keith Stowe (Wiley, New York, 1984),

Material to be covered:

Homework: There will be a short homework assignment due every day. The first few assignments are given on the attached course schedule. The homework is very important. It counts as part of the grade, and it will be hard to do well on the tests without having done the homework. Here are a few suggestions for doing homework.

• Always start the problem by drawing a diagram.
• Explain your solution to the problem in words. This is just as important as the calculations.
• Try to find someone to work with on the homework. Whether you end up getting help or giving help to some one else, you will be better off.

Exams: There will be two midterms and a 2-1/2 hour comprehensive final. In addition, there will be frequent short quizzes.

Grading: The grade will be based on the homework and exam grades as indicated below.

        Final Exam               30%
        Midterms                 30%
        Quizzes (drop 2)         20%
        Homework (drop 2)        20%

On-Line Information Service: Problem-set assignments and other information for this course will be made available over the internet. The address is http://www.physics.sfsu.edu/~bland/courses/370/370.html .