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John W. Daily

Course 4 of Statistical Thermodynamics addresses dense gases, liquids, and solids. As the density of a gas is increased, intermolecular forces begin to affect behavior. For small departures from ideal gas behavior, known as the dense gas limit, one can estimate the change in properties using the concept of a configuration integral, a modification to the partition function. This leads to the development of equations of state that are expansions in density from the ideal gas limit. Inter molecular potential energy functions are introduced and it is explored how they impact P-V-T behavior. As the density is increased, there is a transition to the liquid state. We explore whether this transition is smooth or abrupt by examining the stability of a thermodynamic system to small perturbations. We then present a brief discussion regarding the determination of the thermodynamic properties of liquids using concept of the radial distribution function (RDF), and how the function relates to thermodynamic properties. Finally, we explore two simple models of crystalline solids.

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Syllabus

The Configuration Integral
As the density of a gas is increased, intermolecular forces begin to affect behavior. For small departures from ideal gas behavior, known as the dense gas limit, one can estimate the change in properties using the concept of a configuration integral, a modification to the partition function. This leads to the development of equations of state that are expansions in density from the ideal gas limit. Inter molecular potential energy functions are introduced and it is explored how they impact P-V-T behavior.
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Thermodynamic Stability
As the density is increased, there is a transition to the liquid state. We explore whether this transition is smooth or abrupt by examining the stability of a thermodynamic system to small perturbations. We also explore Gibb's phase rule.
The radial distribution function, thermodynamic properties, and MD simulations of liquid properties
In this Module we present a brief discussion regarding the determination of the thermodynamic properties of liquids using the concept of the radial distribution function (RDF), and how the function relates to thermodynamic properties. This includes introducing the use of molecular dynamics to obtain the radial distribution function.
Crystalline Solids
It turns out that we can use the results of simple statistical thermodynamics to describe the behavior of crystalline solids.

Good to know

Know what's good
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Explores statistical thermodynamics at the advanced graduate level
Instructed by John W. Daily, who is a recognized expert in statistical thermodynamics
Covers advanced concepts such as the configuration integral, thermodynamic stability, and crystalline solids
Requires a strong understanding of thermodynamics
Assumes familiarity with molecular dynamics simulations

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Reviews summary

Challenging course in thermodynamics

Learners say that this course on the properties of dense gases, liquids, and solids is challenging and requires hard work but is also pedagogical and interesting. The study of thermodynamics, isotherms, and specific heat in different states of matters is taught in a way that moves beyond undergraduate-level work. According to students, this course is well worth the effort with engaging assignments that help build a strong understanding of the subject matter.
Knowledgeable & Clear
"This is the fourth Coursera subject taught in the Specialization in Statistical Thermodynamics with Prof. John W. Daily from the University of Colorado at Boulder."
Challenging & Demanding
"It requires hard work and comprehension of subjects typically not given in undergraduate courses."
"It examines our capability not only to numerically sketch complicated isotherms and other physical quantities but the ability to understand the units used for their measurements, plots, and physical meaning."
Rewarding Experience
"Thank You!"
"I highly recommend this challenging & interesting "Dense Gases, Liquids and Solids" course."
Check for Alignment
"I learned something, but most of the time it feels like the quizzes do not match the contents that are taught."
Check for Clarity
"Please mention the units of the answer properly."
"It took me a while to complete the course because as far as units are concerned, the correct answer does not match what is asked in the problem."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Dense Gases, Liquids and Solids with these activities:
Review 'Classical Thermodynamics of Nonelectrolyte Solutions' by H.C. Van Ness
Statistical Thermodynamics relies on a strong foundation in thermodynamics. This book will help you gain a deep understanding of that foundation.
Show steps
  • Read chapters 1-3
  • Complete practice problems in chapters 1-3
  • Review notes
Join a study group to discuss the course material
Discussing the course material with your peers will help you to understand it more deeply.
Show steps
  • Find a study group to join
  • Attend the study group meetings
  • Participate in the discussions
Practice using the Gibbs Phase Rule
The Gibbs Phase Rule is a powerful tool for understanding phase behavior. This activity will provide you with practice using it so that you can apply it to real-world problems.
Show steps
  • Find 5 practice problems involving the Gibbs Phase Rule
  • Solve each problem step-by-step
  • Review your solutions
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Follow the 'Crystalline Solids Tutorial' on the MIT OpenCourseWare website
This tutorial will provide you with a clear and concise overview of crystalline solids.
Show steps
  • Visit the MIT OpenCourseWare website
  • Find the 'Crystalline Solids Tutorial'
  • Follow the steps in the tutorial
  • Complete the practice problems
Attend the 'Statistical Thermodynamics Workshop' at your local university
This workshop will provide you with an opportunity to learn from experts in the field of statistical thermodynamics.
Show steps
  • Find the 'Statistical Thermodynamics Workshop' at your local university
  • Register for the workshop
  • Attend the workshop
  • Participate in the discussions
Create a presentation on the radial distribution function
Creating a presentation on the radial distribution function will help you to solidify your understanding of this important concept.
Show steps
  • Research the radial distribution function
  • Create an outline for your presentation
  • Develop your presentation slides
  • Practice your presentation
  • Present your presentation to your classmates
Contribute to the 'Statistical Thermodynamics' project on GitHub
Contributing to this project will give you hands-on experience with statistical thermodynamics and open source software development.
Show steps
  • Find the 'Statistical Thermodynamics' project on GitHub
  • Identify an issue or feature that you would like to work on
  • Fork the repository
  • Make your changes
  • Submit a pull request
Develop a computer simulation to model the behavior of a dense gas
This project will allow you to apply the concepts of statistical thermodynamics to a real-world problem.
Show steps
  • Research dense gases
  • Design your simulation
  • Implement your simulation
  • Test and validate your simulation
  • Write a report on your findings

Career center

Learners who complete Dense Gases, Liquids and Solids will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Professor
A Professor is responsible for teaching courses, advising students, and conducting research in higher education. The research conducted by Professors can vary extensively by field and subfield. Some Professors may focus on the subfield of Statistical Thermodynamics, or on related subfields of Chemistry or Physics. By having a background in Statistical Thermodynamics, Professors may be better able to conduct research in Chemical Physics. Coursework in Statistical Thermodynamics may be the first step towards a career in academia.
Research Scientist
Research Scientists conduct scientific research, generally with the purpose of advancing knowledge in their field. A Research Scientist working in Statistical Thermodynamics may use the knowledge gained in this course to further their understanding of dense gases, liquids, and solids. The course's emphasis on intermolecular potential energy functions and molecular dynamics may be particularly useful for a Research Scientist working in these areas.
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineers research, design, develop, and operate various chemical processes and plants. Knowledge of Statistical Thermodynamics may be useful to Chemical Engineers working in product development or optimization.
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientists research and develop new materials, or improve existing ones. They may be involved in the production, characterization, or testing of materials. Knowledge of Statistical Thermodynamics may be useful for a Materials Scientist working with advanced materials or composites.
Physicist
Physicists perform research on the fundamental nature and properties of matter and the universe. A Physicist specializing in Statistical Physics may find the course's focus on equations of state and phase transitions particularly relevant.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use scientific methods to extract knowledge and insights from data in various fields. They may work in research, development, or business intelligence. Statistical Thermodynamics may be useful in this role if a Data Scientist works in a related field such as Computational Chemistry or Computational Physics, or needs to make use of molecular dynamics.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers apply engineering principles to the design, development, deployment, and maintenance of software systems. A Software Engineer working on scientific modeling or simulation software may find the course's focus on equations of state and molecular dynamics relevant.
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and edit technical documentation, such as user manuals, technical reports, and scientific papers. Statistical Thermodynamics may be useful for a Technical Writer who needs to write about topics related to Chemical Physics, Chemistry, or Physics.
Science Teacher
Science Teachers teach science to students in primary or secondary schools. A Science Teacher who teaches Chemistry or Physics may find the course's focus on the properties and behavior of matter relevant.
Quality Control Analyst
Quality Control Analysts ensure that products and services meet quality standards. They may work in manufacturing, healthcare, or other industries. Statistical Thermodynamics may be useful for a Quality Control Analyst who works in a laboratory setting and needs to understand the properties and behavior of materials.
Laboratory Technician
Laboratory Technicians conduct experiments, collect data, and perform analyses in a laboratory setting. They may work in research, development, or quality control. Statistical Thermodynamics may be useful for a Laboratory Technician who needs to understand the properties and behavior of materials.
Technical Sales Engineer
Technical Sales Engineers sell technical products or services to businesses or other organizations. They may work for a variety of companies, including those in the chemical, manufacturing, or software industries. Statistical Thermodynamics may be useful for a Technical Sales Engineer who needs to understand the properties and behavior of materials or software.
Patent Attorney
Patent Attorneys prepare, file, and prosecute patent applications for inventions. They may also provide advice on patent-related matters. Statistical Thermodynamics may be useful for a Patent Attorney who needs to understand the technical aspects of inventions related to Chemical Physics, Chemistry, or Physics.
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the planning, development, and marketing of products. They may work for a variety of companies, including those in the chemical, manufacturing, or software industries. Statistical Thermodynamics may be useful for a Product Manager who needs to understand the properties and behavior of materials or software.
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and expertise to businesses and other organizations. They may work in a variety of fields, including management, finance, and technology. Statistical Thermodynamics may be useful for a Consultant who works in the chemical, manufacturing, or software industries.

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Dense Gases, Liquids and Solids.
Will help you understand the intermolecular and surface forces that are responsible for the behavior of dense gases, liquids, and solids, bridging the gap between microscopic explanations and macroscopic observations.
Will help you understand the basics of statistical mechanics, with a focus on the canonical, grand canonical, and microcanonical ensembles. It will help provide a foundation for understanding the subsequent books.
Provides a comprehensive overview of molecular simulation. It will help you understand the techniques used to simulate the behavior of liquids, which are essential for understanding the behavior of dense gases, liquids, and solids.
Will help you understand the molecular thermodynamics of fluid-phase equilibria, which is essential for understanding the behavior of dense gases, liquids, and solids.
Provides a comprehensive overview of condensed matter physics. It will help you understand the structure and properties of solids, which are essential for understanding the behavior of dense gases, liquids, and solids.
Will help you understand the fundamentals of solid state physics, which is essential for understanding the behavior of solids.
Provides a comprehensive overview of classical and statistical thermodynamics. It will help you understand the fundamentals of these subjects, which are essential for understanding the behavior of dense gases, liquids, and solids.
Will help you understand the fundamentals of statistical thermodynamics, which is essential for understanding the behavior of macroscopic systems.

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