Thermal Physics An Introduction to Thermodynamics, Statistical Mechanics, and Kinetic Theory

• ISBN13: 9780198539223
• ISBN10: 0198539223
• Edition: 2nd
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 1988-11-03
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

The amount of time devoted to thermodynamics in many undergraduate courses has been reduced in recent years as newer subjects crowd the curriculum. One possible solution is to concentrate on a microscopic, statistical approach, and present the laws of thermodynamics as a by-product of statistical mechanics. However, the macroscopic approach is valid and satisfying in its own right and represents one of the great achievements of classical physics. This introduction to thermodynamics presents both macroscopic and microscopic approaches to the subject. Reidi introduces each area separately and then examines a number of selected topics from both points of view, presenting the strengths and weaknesses of each. This text thus provides a balanced discussion of thermal physics that will form a useful basis for further studies of the properties of matter, whether from a thermodynamic or a statistical point of view.

Table of Contents

Thermodynamics

First Law of Thermodynamics

Second Law of Thermodynamics

Further Concepts of Thermodynamics

Further Applications of Thermodynamics

Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics

Weakly Coupled Systems

Equilibrium Statistical Mechanics

Kinetic Theory

Kinetic Theory of Cases I

Kinetic Theory of Cases II

Applications of Thermodynamics and Statistical Methods

Further Applications

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