Kinetic Theory: Classical, Quantum, and Relativistic Descriptions

This updated and expanded edition offers a collective description of all aspects of kinetic theory

Kinetic Theory: Classical, Quantum, and Relativistic Descriptions, Second Edition goes beyond the scope of other works in the field with a significantly broader array of applications. This superior reference addresses a wide range of disciplines, including aerospace, mechanical, and chemical engineering; solid state and laser physics; and controlled and astrophysical thermonuclear fusion. Topics covered include:
* Entirely new material on kinetic properties of metals and amorphous media.
* Exposition and analysis of the Liouville equation.
* The Boltzmann equation, fluid dynamics, and irreversibility.
* Kinetic equations with applications to plasmas, neutral fluids, and shock waves.
* Elements of quantum kinetic theory and the many-body Green's function.
* Relativistic kinetic theory--covariant Liouville equation
* List of classical and quantum hierarchies of kinetic equations

Support materials include problem sets at the end of each chapter, many of which provide self-contained descriptions of closely allied topics. Numerous appendices supply vector formulas and tensor notation, properties of special functions, physical constants, references, and a historical time chart.

Kinetic Theory, Second Edition is an indispensable resource for physicists involved in plasma physics, condensed matter, and statistical mechanics; electrical engineers working with laser and solid state devices; and researchers in industry and academia. It is also an excellent text for graduate courses in these and other disciplines.

RICHARD L. LIBOFF is Professor of Electrical Engineering and Applied Physics at Cornell University. Among his numerous publications are Introductory Quantum Mechanics; Transmission Lines, Wave Guides and Smith Charts (with G. C. Dalman); and Introduction to the Theory of Kinetic Equations.