Thermal Physics - Softcover

Baierlein, Ralph

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521658381 ISBN 13: 9780521658386

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2010

Synopsis

Clear and reader-friendly, this is an ideal textbook for students seeking an introduction to thermal physics. Written by an experienced teacher and extensively class-tested, Thermal Physics provides a comprehensive grounding in thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, and kinetic theory. A key feature of this text is its readily accessible introductory chapters, which begin with a review of fundamental ideas. Entropy, conceived microscopically and statistically, and the Second Law of Thermodynamics are introduced early in the book. Throughout, topics are built on a conceptual foundation of four linked elements: entropy and the Second Law, the canonical probability distribution, the partition function, and the chemical potential. As well as providing a solid preparation in the basics of the subject, the text goes on to explain exciting recent developments such as Bose-Einstein condensation and critical phenomena. Key equations are highlighted throughout, and each chapter contains a summary of essential ideas and an extensive set of problems of varying degrees of difficulty. A free solutions manual is available for instructors (ISBN 0521 658608). Thermal Physics is suitable for both undergraduates and graduates in physics and astronomy.

About this title

Review:

'This book is a superb introduction to the key concepts of statistical mechanics, thoroughly modern in approach with current topics emphasized as well as basic principles. Baierlein's characteristic clarity of exposition makes the book ideal for self-study as well as for classroom use.' H. Eugene Stanley, Boston University

'Thermal Physics is conceptually clear, yet mathematically rigorous. The book is unique in its approach in that it moves from the familiar to the abstract. The initial chapters of the book provide a review of freshman thermodynamics and a bridge to the rest of the text, the topics of classical statistical mechanics and quantum statistics. A class based on the text will well prepare students for a graduate class in thermal physics.' S. C. Tegler, Northern Arizona University

Book Description:

This textbook provides a clear, instructive and highly readable introduction to thermal physics. Written by an experienced teacher, it gives a comprehensive grounding in thermodynamics, statistical mechanics and kinetic theory and also includes developments including Bose-Einstein condensation and critical phenomena. Suitable for both undergraduates and graduates in physics and astronomy. A solutions manual is also available (ISBN 0521 658608).

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2010
• ISBN 10: 0521658381
• ISBN 13: 9780521658386
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 460