Course content

The course focuses on central concepts in classical transport theory and their applications. The following topics are treated: Hydrodynamics, kinetic theory and the Boltzmann-equation, linearized Boltzmann-equation, eigenvalue-problem, hydrodynamic and kinetic modes. Chapman-Enskog expansion, the Lorentz-gas. Stochastic variables, stochastic processes, Markov processes, Langevin-equation. Correlation functions, Wiener-Khinchin theorem, fluctuation-dissipation theorem, Chapman-Kolomogorov-Smoluchowski equations, the Master equation, Fokker-Planck Equation, moment-equations. Analogies between the Boltzmann-equation and the Master-Equation, and between moment-equations and the hydrodynamic conservation laws. Emphasis will be placed on the physical contents and applications of transport theory.

Learning outcome

The course provides a general introduction to the fundamental concepts and principles of classical transport theory, together with some modern applications.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and exercises. Lectures and lecture material are in English. Expected work load in the course is 225 hours.

Recommended previous knowledge

Basic skills in physics, mathematics and statistics.

Course materials

Reading material will be distributed at the start of the semester.

Credit reductions