Statistical Physics and Thermodynamics: An Introduction to Key Concepts - Softcover

Rau, Jochen

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0199595070 ISBN 13: 9780199595075

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 2017

Synopsis

Statistical physics and thermodynamics describe the behaviour of systems on the macroscopic scale. Their methods are applicable to a wide range of phenomena: from refrigerators to the interior of stars, from chemical reactions to magnetism. Indeed, of all physical laws, the laws of thermodynamics are perhaps the most universal. This text provides a concise yet thorough introduction to the key concepts which underlie statistical physics and thermodynamics.

It begins with a review of classical probability theory and quantum theory, as well as a careful discussion of the notions of information and entropy, prior to embarking on the development of statistical physics proper. The crucial steps leading from the microscopic to the macroscopic domain are rendered transparent. In particular, the laws of thermodynamics are shown to emerge as natural consequences of the statistical framework. While the emphasis is on clarifying the basic concepts, the text also contains many applications and classroom-tested exercises, covering all major topics of a standard course on statistical physics and thermodynamics.

About this title

About the Author

Jochen Rau, Professor of Mathematics, RheinMain University of Applied Sciences

Jochen Rau received degrees in physics and mathematics from Goethe University Frankfurt, University of Cambridge, and Duke University. He has taught theoretical physics at Goethe University Frankfurt and Ulm University, Germany, and is currently Professor of Mathematics at RheinMain University of Applied Sciences, Germany.

Edition details

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 2017
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0199595070
• ISBN 13: 9780199595075
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 224