Introduction to Nonequilibrium Statistical Mechanics

Catalog description

This course covers basic topics in classical nonequilibrium statistical mechanics. The canonical diffusion process will be discussed from different viewpoints, including random walk, velocity autocorrelation, Langevin dynamics, and Fokker-Planck equation. The fundamental concepts of linear response theory will be presented, including the connection between response functions and time-correlation functions, fluctuation-dissipation theorem (FDT), Green-Kubo relation, and Kramers-Kronig relation. Examples drawn from rheology and transport will be discussed to illustrate the application of linear response formulation, including hydrodynamic interaction, microrheology, and possibly interfacial rheology. Finally, the classical models for activated processes and phase transition kinetics will be discussed, including Kramers rate theory, nucleation, growth, Lifshitz-Slyzov model for ripening, and spinodal decomposition. Prerequisite: Graduate level equilibrium statistical mechanics, or equivalent of CHEMENG 340.