Statistical Physics And Thermodynamics

This text presents statistical mechanics and thermodynamics as a theoretically integrated field of study. It stresses deep coverage of fundamentals, providing a natural foundation for advanced topics. The large problem sets (with solutions for teachers) include many computational problems to advance student understanding.

This textbook provides a comprehensive, yet accessible, introduction to statistical mechanics. Crafted and class-tested over many years of teaching, it carefully guides advanced undergraduate and graduate students who are encountering statistical mechanics for the first time through this – sometimes – intimidating subject. The book provides a strong foundation in thermodynamics and the ensemble formalism of statistical mechanics. An introductory chapter on probability theory is included. Applications include degenerate Fermi systems, Bose-Einstein condensation, cavity radiation, phase transitions, and critical phenomena. The book concludes with a treatment of scaling theories and the renormalization group. In addition, it provides clear descriptions of how to understand the foundational mathematics and physics involved and includes exciting case studies of modern applications of the subject in physics and wider interdisciplinary areas. Key Features: Presents the subject in a clear and entertaining style which enables the author to take a sophisticated approach whilst remaining accessible Contains contents that have been carefully reviewed with a substantial panel to ensure that coverage is appropriate for a wide range of courses, worldwide Accompanied by volumes on thermodynamics and non-equilibrium statistical mechanics, which can be used in conjunction with this book, on courses which cover both thermodynamics and statistical mechanics

Statistical physics and thermodynamics describe the behaviour of systems on the macroscopic scale. Their methods are applicable to a wide range of phenomena, from neutron stars to heat engines, or from chemical reactions to phase transitions. The pertinent laws are among the most universal ones of all laws of physics.

The account of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics in Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics is based on entropy and its maximization. Building from first principles, it gives a transparent explanation of the physical behaviour of equilibrium thermodynamic systems, and it presents a comprehensive, self-contained account of the modern mathematical and computational techniques of statistical mechanics. This field of study is of vital importance to researchers, lecturers and students alike. Dr Attard is a well-known researcher in statistical mechanics who has made significant contributions to this field. His book offers a fresh perspective on the foundations of statistical thermodynamics. It includes a number of new results and novel derivations, and provides an intriguing alternative to existing monographs. Especially of note are the simple graphs and figures that illustrate the text throughout and the logical organization of the material. Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics will be an invaluable and comprehensive reference manual for research scientists. This text can be used as a complement to existing texts and for supplementary reading. Offers a fresh perspective on the foundations of statistical thermodynamics Includes a number of new results and novel derivations, and provides an intriguing alternative to existing monographs Simple graphs and figures illustrate the text throughout Logical organization of material An invaluable and comprehensive reference manual for research scientists Can be used as a complement to existing texts and for supplementary reading

From the reviews: "This book excels by its variety of modern examples in solid state physics, magnetism, elementary particle physics [...] I can recommend it strongly as a valuable source, especially to those who are teaching basic statistical physics at our universities." Physicalia

This book provides a comprehensive exposition of the theory of equilibrium thermodynamics and statistical mechanics at a level suitable for well-prepared undergraduate students. The fundamental message of the book is that all results in equilibrium thermodynamics and statistical mechanics follow from a single unprovable axiom — namely, the principle of equal a priori probabilities — combined with elementary probability theory, elementary classical mechanics, and elementary quantum mechanics.

Well respected, widely used volume presents problems and full solutions related to a wide range of topics in thermodynamics, statistical physics, statistical mechanics. Suitable for undergraduates and graduate students, self-study, reference. 1989 edition.

This textbook concerns thermal properties of bulk matter and is aimed at advanced undergraduate or first-year graduate students in a range of programs in science or engineering. It provides an intermediate level presentation of statistical thermodynamics for students in the physical sciences (chemistry, nanosciences, physics) or related areas of applied science/engineering (chemical engineering, materials science, nanotechnology engineering), as they are areas in which statistical mechanical concepts play important roles. The book enables students to utilize microscopic concepts to achieve a better understanding of macroscopic phenomena and to be able to apply these concepts to the types of sub-macroscopic systems encountered in areas of nanoscience and nanotechnology.