Math required for Statistical and solid state physics

AI Thread Summary
To prepare for graduate-level courses in statistical mechanics and solid-state physics, a solid understanding of specific mathematical methods is essential. Key areas of focus include probability theory, particularly binomial coefficients, the law of large numbers, and the central limit theorem. Mastery of Gaussian integrals and series expansions is also recommended. While tensor analysis, Fourier series/transform, and complex analysis are valuable in various physics contexts, they are not strictly necessary for statistical physics. Emphasizing probability and foundational mathematical concepts will provide a strong basis for success in these courses.
kini.Amith
Messages
83
Reaction score
1
I have to take a graduate level statistical mech course and a solid state physics course next sem (starting in feb).As I will be dealing with these topics for the first time, I'd like to like to prepare myself for them by learning/revising the math involved in them. What are the mathematical methods that frequently appear in these subjects?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
For statistical physics, I suggest a review of probability theory (including binomial coefficients, law of large numbers, central limit theorem). Knowing how to tackle Gaussian integrals is also important. A review of series expansions is also useful.
 
Will I require tensor analysis, Fourier series/transform and complex analysis? These are some of the things I am not quite in touch with.
 
kini.Amith said:
Will I require tensor analysis, Fourier series/transform and complex analysis?
Not for statistical physics.
 
Probability
 
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...
I graduated with a BSc in Physics in 2020. Since there were limited opportunities in my country (mostly teaching), I decided to improve my programming skills and began working in IT, first as a software engineer and later as a quality assurance engineer, where I’ve now spent about 3 years. While this career path has provided financial stability, I’ve realized that my excitement and passion aren’t really there, unlike what I felt when studying or doing research in physics. Working in IT...
Hello, I’m an undergraduate student pursuing degrees in both computer science and physics. I was wondering if anyone here has graduated with these degrees and applied to a physics graduate program. I’m curious about how graduate programs evaluated your applications. In addition, if I’m interested in doing research in quantum fields related to materials or computational physics, what kinds of undergraduate research experiences would be most valuable?
Back
Top