- Level Professional
- Duration 10 hours
- Course by Carnegie Mellon University
-
Offered by
About
Modern engineering research focuses on designing new materials and processes at the molecular level. Statistical thermodynamics provides the formalism for understanding how molecular interactions lead to the observed collective behavior at the macroscale. This course will develop a molecular-level understanding of key thermodynamic quantities like heat, work, free energy and entropy. These concepts will be applied in understanding several important engineering and biological applications.Modules
Module 1: Classical and Quantum Mechanics
2
Videos
- Module 1.1: Classical Mechanics
- Module 1.2: Quantum Mechanics
Module 2: Classical Thermodynamics
2
Videos
- Module 2.1: Classical Thermodynamics
- Module 2.2: Phase Equilibrium
Week 1
1
Assignment
- Assignment 1
Entry Survey and Hands-on Demonstration Kit
2
Assignment
- Entry Survey
- Hands-on demo kit
Module 3: Statistics and Introduction to Statistical Thermodynamics
2
Videos
- Module 3.1: Statistics
- Module 3.2: Statistical Thermodynamics
Week 2
1
Assignment
- Assignment 2
Random Walker Example
1
External Tool
- LTI Random Walker Activity
Module 4: Non-interacting systems
5
Videos
- Module 4.1: Non-Interacting Systems: Two-level System
- Module 4.2: Non-Interacting Systems: Ideal Gas
- Module 4.3: Non-Interacting Systems: Electrons
- Module 4.4: Non-Interacting Systems: Phonons
- Module 4.5: Non-Interacting Systems: Photons
Week 3
1
Assignment
- Assignment 3
Module 5: Interacting Systems
3
Videos
- Module 5.1: Ising Model: Introduction
- Module 5.2: Ising Model: Mean-field Approximation
- Module 5.3: Ising Model: Fluctuations
Week 4
1
Assignment
- Assignment 4
Module 6: Water
2
Videos
- Module 6.1: Water: Two-phase model
- Module 6.2: Water: Unique properties
Module 7: Polymers
1
Videos
- Module 7.1: Polymers
Week 5
1
Assignment
- Assignment 5
Module 8: Photosynthesis
1
Videos
- Module 8.1: Photosynthesis
Module 9: Liquids
2
Videos
- Module 9.1: Classical Liquids
- Module 9.2: Classical Liquids: Measurement
Week 6
1
Assignment
- Assignment 6
Module 10: Adsorption
2
Videos
- Module 10.1: Adsorption: Non-interacting adsorbates
- Module 10.2: Adsorption: Interacting adsorbates
Module 11: Electrolytes
1
Videos
- Module 11.1: Electrolytes
Office Hours
1
Videos
- Office Hours
Thank You
1
Videos
- Thank You
Auto Summary
Unlock the secrets of molecular interactions and their macroscopic impacts with the course "Statistical Thermodynamics: Molecules to Machines." This advanced science and engineering program, offered by Coursera, delves into the molecular-level foundations of thermodynamic quantities such as heat, work, free energy, and entropy. Designed for professionals, the course emphasizes the application of these concepts to both engineering and biological systems. Guided by expert instruction, learners will explore how molecular behavior translates into observable phenomena, equipping them with the skills to innovate in material and process design. The comprehensive content spans 600 hours, ensuring an in-depth understanding and practical knowledge. Flexible subscription options, including Starter and Professional plans, cater to a variety of learning needs and professional goals. Ideal for engineers, researchers, and advanced students, this course promises to elevate your expertise in the cutting-edge field of statistical thermodynamics.

Venkat Viswanathan