Concise Chemical Thermodynamics, 2nd Edition

The first edition of Concise Chemical Thermodynamics proved to be a very popular introduction to a subject many undergraduate students perceive as a difficult topic, because it presented thermodynamics with practical chemical examples in a way that used little mathematics.

In this second edition the text has been carefully revised to ensure the same approach is maintained. Students are led to an understanding of Gibbs free energy early on, and the concept is demonstrated in several different fields. The book includes discussions of experimental equilibrium data, an introduction to electrochemistry, a brief survey of Ellingham diagrams, and a treatment of entropy without reference to the Carnot cycle. A new chapter on computer-based methods in thermodynamics has been added to reflect current technological trends and practices.

Thermodynamic data has been revised in light of information provided by the work of the Scientific Group Thermodata Europe, to ensure that the symbols and units reflect the latest IUPAC rules. In addition, the problems and examples have been updated, replaced, and amplified to reflect current understanding and concerns. Undergraduate students of chemistry will find this an ideal introduction to chemical thermodynamics.

A. P. H. Peters is a senior lecturer in physical and analytical chemistry at Hogeschool Zuyd in Heerlen, The Netherlands.