Prerequisites for Statistical Physics

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on the prerequisites necessary for understanding a course in Statistical Physics, specifically referencing the textbook "Statistical Physics" by F. Reif. Participants share their thoughts on foundational knowledge in related fields such as thermodynamics, probability, and mathematical methods.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests reviewing thermodynamics knowledge from previous physics or chemistry courses.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of learning basic probability and counting methods.
  • A different participant recommends looking at Reif's book from the Berkeley Series as a helpful resource.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of reviewing thermodynamics and learning probability, but there is no consensus on additional specific prerequisites beyond these suggestions.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about prior knowledge in thermodynamics and probability are present, but the discussion does not clarify the depth or specific topics required.

Alok Shah
Messages
9
Reaction score
0
I am planning to take a course on Statistical Physics in my university. The main text to be followed is Statistical Physics by F. Reif. As of now, I have completed university level courses on Calculus, Differential Equations, Linear Algebra. What other knowledge would be required to help me get a better understanding of the course ?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You might want to review whatever thermo. you've had in earlier physics or chemistry courses.
 
Bystander said:
You might want to review whatever thermo. you've had in earlier physics or chemistry courses.
Thanks a lot.:)
 
Learning some basic probability and counting methods will help.
 
Look at Reif's book that was part of the Berkley Series, it would be extremely helpful.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 32 ·
2
Replies
32
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
5K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K