Nucleation in the liquid and solid states; thermodynamics of phase transformations; solidification of pure metals and alloys; thermal supercooling; constitutional supercooling; interface stability; solute redistribution; eutectic and peritectic solidification; glass formation; crystal growth techniques. Solid‐state transformations ‐ nucleation and growth of phases; Diffusion mechanisms; transformation kinetics; transformation diagrams. Diffusional and diffusionless transformations: decomposition of solid solutions; ordering reactions, spinodal decomposition; eutectoid, bainitic and martensitic transformations. Ternary phase equilibria. Aspects of ferrous metallurgy and common classes of low carbon and alloy steels to be taught illustrating some of the principles involved.