M.Sc. DEGREE EXAMINATION, APRIL/MAY 2018.
Second Semester
Physics
Paper I STATISTICAL AND RELATIVISTIC MECHANICS

2 20721
Time 3 Hours Max. Marks 100
SECTION — A
(Short Answer Type)
Answer any FIVE of the following. 8 40 Marks)
1. What is meant by phase space of a system? Explain phase.
2. Obtain Sackur-Tetrode equation.
3. Explain the partition function for canonical ensemble.
4. Explain the applications of rotational partition function.
5. Derive Fermi-Dirac distribution function.
6. Explain heat capacity of solids.
7. Discuss the Minkowski space.
8. What are Lorentz transformations? Explain.
SECTION — B
(Essay Answer Type)
Answer ALL questions. 15 60 Marks)
9. Define the three types of ensembles and explain them. Compare and contrast
the properties of ensembles.
Or
What is Cibb's Paradox? Explain how it has been resolved. Explain Brownian
motion.

10. State and prove Boltzmann equipartition theorem and explain molecular
partition function.
Or
Derive an equation for the vibrational partition function. Mention the
applications of vibrational partition function to solids.
11. Mention Bose-Einstein's distribution equation and explain its importance
Obtain Planck's radiation law.
Or
Explain the two fluid model of liquid helium and discuss the super fluid
phase of He.
12. Discuss the geometrical interpretation of Lorentz Transformation of space
and time.
Or
Define length-contraction and time dilation and discuss in detail the
relativistic classification of particles.
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