Statistical Mechanics of Liquids and Solutions: Intermolecular Forces, Structure and Surface Interactions

The statistical mechanical theory of liquids and solutions is a fundamental area of physical sciences with important implications in other fields of science and industrial applications. Statistical Mechanics of Liquids and Solutions: Intermolecular Forces, Structure and Surface Interactions is the second in a series of two on this subject. While the first volume introduced equilibrium statistical mechanics in general and statistical mechanics of liquids and solutions at an introductory level, the present volume presents an advanced treatment of the subject and penetrates much deeper into liquid state theory.

A major theme in both books is the intimate relationship between forces in a fluid and the fluid structure - a relationship that is paramount for the understanding of the subject of interactions in dense fluids. Using this microscopic, molecular approach, the text emphasizes clarity of physical explanations for phenomena and mechanisms relevant to fluids, addressing the structure and behavior of liquids and solutions under various conditions. A notable feature is the author's treatment of intermolecular interactions in liquids and solutions that include interactions between nanoparticles, macroparticles, and surfaces. The book provides an in-depth treatment of simple liquids, molecular fluids, particle dispersions, dense ionic fluids and electrolyte solutions with molecular solvent, both in the bulk and in confinement. It contains a unified exact treatment of electrolyte solutions, ionic liquids and polar fluids as well as approximate theories and applications.

Statistical Mechanics of Liquids and Solutions will be an invaluable resource for graduate and postgraduate students in physics, chemistry, soft matter science, surface and colloid science and related fields, as well as professionals and instructors in those areas of science.

Roland Kjellander earned a master’s degree in chemical engineering, a Ph.D. in physical chemistry, and the title of docent in physical chemistry from the Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden. He is currently a professor emeritus of physical chemistry in the Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. His previous appointments include roles in various academic and research capacities at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden; Australian National University, Canberra;

Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden; Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, USA; and Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA. He was awarded the 2004 Pedagogical Prize from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, and the 2007 Norblad-Ekstrand Medal from the Swedish Chemical Society. Professor Kjellander’s field of research is statistical mechanics, in particular liquid state theory.