Use the coupling between generalized forces (gradients of intensive thermodynamic variables) and generalized fluxes (of extensive thermodynamic variables) to predict the response of materials to changing conditions.

Apply the principles of rate theory (rate constants, equilibrium constants, etc.) and activated processes (energy barriers, etc.) to model various kinetic phenomena.

Describe diffusion mechanisms in various classes of materials and use appropriate models to make predictions.

Understand the mechanisms of discontinuous phase transformations (solidification, nucleation and growth, etc.), the characteristics of resulting microstructures, and be able to apply existing models for these kinetic phenomena.

Understand the mechanisms of continous phase transformation (spinodal decomposition, ordering, etc.), the characteristics of resulting microstructures, and be able to apply existing models for these kinetic phenomena.

Predict how the macroscopic shape and microstructure of materials will evolve under various conditions based on principles of driving forces and mechanisms of shape evolution (coarsening, grain growth, sintering, morphological instabilities, etc.).

Predict macroscopic (e.g. thermodynamics) behavior from models of atomic and/or microscopic phenomena and mechanisms.