An Introduction to Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics

by Swendsen, Robert H.

• ISBN13: 9780199646944
• ISBN10: 0199646945
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2012-05-04
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

This text presents the two complementary aspects of thermal physics as an integrated theory of the properties of matter. Conceptual understanding is promoted by thorough development of basic concepts. In contrast to many texts, statistical mechanics, including discussion of the required probability theory, is presented first. This provides a statistical foundation for the concept of entropy, which is central to thermal physics. A unique feature of the book is the development ofentropy based on Boltzmann's 1877 definition; this avoids contradictions or ad hoc corrections found in other texts. Detailed fundamentals provide a natural grounding for advanced topics, such as black-body radiation and quantum gases. An extensive set of problems (solutions are available for lecturersthrough the OUP website), many including explicit computations, advance the core content by probing essential concepts. The text is designed for a two-semester undergraduate course but can be adapted for one-semester courses emphasizing either aspect of thermal physics. It is also suitable for graduate study.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Entropy

Classical Ideal Gas

Discrete probability theory

Configurational entropy

Continuous random numbers

Classical ideal gas: Energy

Ideal and "real" gases

T, P, m, and all that

Introduction to Thermodynamics

Postulates and Laws of thermodynamics

Thermodynamic perturbations

Thermodynamic processes

Thermodynamic potentials

Extensivity

Thermodynamic identities

Extremum principles

Stability conditions

Phase transitions

Nernst postulate

Classical statistical mechanics

Classical ensembles

Classical ensembles: grand and otherwise

Irreversibility

Quantum statistical mechanics

Quantum ensembles

Quantum canoncial ensemble

Black-body radiation

The harmonic solid

Ideal quantum gases

Bose-Einstein statistics

Fermi-Dirac statistics

Insulators and semiconductors

The Ising model

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