The Second Law of Thermodynamics has been called the most important law of nature. It is the law that gives a direction to processes that are not inherent in the laws of motion. Its mathematical formulation is simple; the entropy of a closed system cannot decrease. Since the recognition that macroscopic phenomena have an atomic basis, it has remained a fundamental problem to reconcile the increase of entropy with the known reversibility of all the laws of microscopic physics. Professor Michael Mackey of McGill University here explores the dynamical basis for the Second Law, seeking to illuminate the fundamental dynamical properties required for the construction of a successful statistical mechanics. Aimed at physicists and applied mathematicians with an interest in the foundations of statistical mechanics, the book includes such new material as: a demonstration that the black body radiation law can be deduced from maximal entropy principles; a discussion of sufficient conditions for the existence of at least one state of thermodynamic equilibrium; a description of the behaviour of entropy in asymptotically periodic systems; a necessary and sufficient condition for the evolution of entropy to a global maximum; and a presentation of the three main types of ergodic theorems and their proofs.

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Large general used & rare bookstore with a well organized stock of over 10,000 mostly hardback books, antiquarian maps & prints, and tribal art. Open Weds-Sat from 12 - 5 or by appointment EST. We offer computerized Search Service and Appraisal services. Member Antiquarian Booksellers Association of America and International League of Antiquarian Booksellers. Buying and Selling books since 1978, on line since 1998.

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GLOVER'S BOOKERY, ABAA
862 S. Broadway, Lexington, KY, 40504-2646, U.S.A.

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Glover's Bookery, ABAA; Bookseller Since 1978, 859-253-0614, bookery@post.com;
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Ship/hnd: multiple volume sets counted by the book (ie. 4 vols = 4 books).
USPS BOOK RATE (2-20 days) $4.50 1st book, $1.75 each additional book; PRIORITY (2-7 days) $11.95 1st book, $4.00 each additional book; INTERNATIONAL: (we will quote you both surface and air for your approval before we process the order). Orders usually ship within 2 business days. Shipping costs are based on books weighing 2.2 LB, or 1 KG. If your book order is heavy or oversized, we may contact you to let you know extra shipping is required.

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