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The time-dependent Schrodinger equation is fully
deterministic and allows one to predict a future state with precision,
provided that the initial state is also known with precision.
In any case, the issue of quantum indeterminacy surely is not
relevant to understanding entropy. (If you think it is relevant,
then please elaborate.)
My point is not that we should rely on authority, only
that intelligent people who have thought very carefully about entropy
are *not* in agreement over whether it is objective or subjective.
So let's be a little more polite to each other, ok?
Physics 318. Thermal Physics (4)
Course Description: Thermodynamics deals with systems containing
very large numbers of particles, bridging the gap between the
microscopic and macroscopic description of such systems. We will
see how heat, temperature, and pressure are related to the motions
and energies of individual atoms. We will also learn why many
processes are irreversible and study the implications of this fact.
Prerequisites: Phsx 163 and Math 113
References: K. Stowe, Introduction to Statistical Mechanics and
Thermodynamics; F. Mandl, Statistical Physics; C. Kittel and
H. Kroemer, Thermal Physics.
Suggested Syllabus: Heat, work, and the first law; ideal gases;
statistics of model systems; entropy and the second law; heat
engines and refrigerators; the Boltzmann distribution; chemical
equilibrium; phase transitions; quantum statistics; blackbody
radiation; heat capacities of solids.