Product Description

This book explains the ideas and techniques of statistical mechanics-the theory of condensed matter-in a simple and progressive way. The text starts with the laws of thermodynamics and simple ideas of quantum mechanics. The conceptual ideas underlying the subject are explained carefully; the mathematical ideas are developed in parallel to give a coherent overall view. The text is illustrated with examples not just from solid state physics, but also from recent theories of radiation from black holes and recent data on the background radiation from the Cosmic background explorer. In this second edition, slightly more advanced material on statistical mechanics is introduced, material which students should meet in an undergraduate course. As a result the new edition contains three more chapters on phase transitions at an appropriate level for an undergraduate student. There are plenty of problems at the end of each chapter, and brief model answers are provided for odd-numbered problems. From reviews of the first edition: '...Introductory Statistical Mechanics is clear and crisp and takes advantage of the best parts of the many approaches to the subject' Physics Today

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #135103 in Books
• Published on: 1999-10-21
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 368 pages

Customer Reviews

An excellent introduction to the subject.
This text provides an excelent introduction to the principles underlying statistical mechanics. Although some prior mathematical knowledge is required, this knowledge need not include a great knowledge of statistical techniques. Much of the mathematical skills needed to understand and use statistical mechanics are covered in the first couple of chapters. The text also covers some fundamental thermodynamics, in a more understandable and useful manner than several books dedicated to thermal physics, before going on to present the joint application of statistical mechanics and thermodynamics as a very useful tool in predicting the properties of a number of types of physical system. Each chapter concludes with a selection of problems, with solutions at the end of the book, providing an oppurtunity to both test understanding of the material and develop the skills needed to apply statistical mechanics.

Finally, and most unusually for the type of subject matter covered, it is not difficult to read. The pages are clearly laid out, diagrams are used effectively and all equations are clearly ennumerated. Most importantly, however, the text covers the fundamental physics effectively and concisely, whilst providing sufficient detail on each topic.

I would consider this book essential reading for any undergraduate studying physical sciences, and a source of good reference material for anyone using the techniques of statistical mechanics at higher levels.