Statistical Mechanics: Fundamentals and Model Solutions, - Hardcover

Dorlas, Teunis C.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0750305401 ISBN 13: 9780750305402

Publisher: CRC Press, 1999

Synopsis

Statistical Mechanics: Fundamentals and Model Solutions is a textbook on equilibrium statistical mechanics for advanced undergraduate and graduate students of mathematics and physics. The author presents a fresh approach to the subject, setting out the basic assumptions clearly and emphasizing the importance of the thermodynamic limit and the role of convexity. With problems and solutions, the book clearly explains the role of models for physical systems, and discusses and solves various models. An understanding of these models is of increasing importance as they have proved to have applications in many areas of mathematics and physics.

About this title

About the Author

Teunis C. Dorlas is a Professor at the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies. He is also the co-author of Statistical Mechanics and Field Theory: Mathematical Aspects.

Review

Statistical mechanics/thermodynamics is the discipline that mathematically connects the thermodynamics with classical and quantum mechanics. The traditional curricula of physics, chemistry, and engineering require this trilogy of areas whereas the mathematics curriculum does not. Dorlas (Univ. of Wales, Swansea) developed this specialized book for introducing mathematics students to statistical mechanics and hence the necessary inclusion of introductions to thermodynamics (part 1, 17 of 35 chapters) and quantum mechanics (chapter 18 and appendix B). Statistical mechanical fundamentals (part 2, nine chapters) and simple model physical systems (part 3, nine chapters) complete this work.

The approach is mathematical rather than empirical/experimental, as shown by the extended discussion of the convexity of many of the thermodynamic functions, the large-deviation theory for systems with multiple energy levels, and the detailed treatment of many of the underlying theore! ms of the physical disciplines. Problem sets; further readings. An introductory, mathematically orientated work suitable for upper-division undergraduates through professionals. -J.F. Belliveau, Providence College. -- CHOICE, April 2000

Edition details

• Publisher: CRC Press
• Publication date: 1999
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0750305401
• ISBN 13: 9780750305402
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 273