Introduction to Concepts of Thermal Physics

Hi, I’m Jonathan Gardner.

  • BS in Physics/minor Math 2000 University of Washington

  • Spent 19 years as a software developer (Amazon, Apple, many startups)

  • Always loved Physics, did my best to keep up with math and physics, wanted to go back to earn PhD

This video series is quite a bit different than my traditional format. This covers concepts of Thermal Physics, in a way that I think is appropriate. Videos will be about 10-20 minutes in length, cover a specific topic, and try to link it to sections in various textbooks.

Textbooks I am using for source material include:

  • Thermal Physics by Schroeder.

  • Physics (4th Edition) by Resnick, Halliday, Krane. (What I studied.)

  • Concepts in Thermal Physics (2nd Edition) by Blundell and Blundell.

  • Thermal Physics (2nd Edition) by Kittel and Kroemer

  • Maybe some others.

What I promise to do:

  • Make videos that cover the topics as clearly and concisely as I can, without simplifying them too much.

  • Encourage you to study and do your homework.

  • Answer your questions here on YouTube or on Discord to the best of my ability.

What YOU must do if you intend to learn this subject:

  • Get at least one textbook on the subject.

  • Read the textbook.

  • Watch the videos.

  • Think DEEPLY about the topics and what you are learning.

  • Memorize where appropriate.

  • Work out the homework problems ON YOUR OWN, seeking for help only after reaching a brick wall, and only getting enough help to surpass that particular wall.

  • Do this consistently and steadily, dedicating at least a few hours a week, if not a few hours a day, to this.

What I promise you will get if you do the above:

  • A solid and COMPLETE understanding of Thermal Physics, way beyond what chemistry students and engineering students get.

  • A solid and complete understanding of the mathematics behind Thermal Physics.

  • A better understanding of what Physics is and what it is not.

  • Membership in the brotherhood of Physicists who understand Thermal Physics and can speak without sounding like an idiot on the topic.

Support my channel, find me on Discord, and don’t lose hope and heart. You CAN do this, if you really want to!