Physics

This course introduces students to the mathematical theory of fluids via the Navier Stokes Equations. The equations can be used to successfully model almost any fluid on Earth, but our mathematical understanding of them remains limited. So much so, that a $1-million prize exists for anyone that can help to further our understanding of problems involving vortex reconnection, turbulence, and whether or not the equations are "well-posed." We will look at examples in inviscid flow theory which provide insight into physical phenomena such as flight, vortex motion, and water waves. Students also explore the basic fluid dynamics necessary to build mathematical models of the environment in which we live, focusing on problems such as climate change, pollution, or the spread of infectious aerosol droplets within our buildings.

The six-week summer lab research program at National Taiwan University places students in various science, engineering and social science research labs and/or projects under the supervision of faculty. Students spend approximately 30 hours per week in lab activities.

This course introduces the basic concepts and tools of Statistical Mechanics at equilibrium. Lectures provide an overview of the powerful methods used to describe systems with a large number of degrees of freedom, with many different examples. Students learn how to build an intuitive and physical understanding of technical and mathematical aspects developed in this course.

This course discusses statistical mechanics and thermodynamics in the advanced undergraduate level with vigorous mathematical treatment. It serves as a core course for physics major students as well as an elective core for those who are interested to gain a deep understanding of statistical mechanics and thermodynamics and to apply related techniques in their own majors. This is also an essential course for those who plan to pursue postgraduate studies in physics or related disciplines. Both conceptual ideas and mathematical treatment are emphasized. Topics include: Elements of Ensemble Theory, Boltzmann, Fermi and Bose-Einstein statistics. Partition function and the laws of Thermodynamics. Disorder and entropy; concept of temperature; the free energy. Density of states. Classical gas, electrons in metals, and black body radiation. Heat capacities. Thermal properties of magnetic systems. Assessment: assignments, final exam, test, lab reports.