Statistical Physics and Thermodynamics: An Introduction to Key Concepts

by Jochen Rau

Overview

Statistical physics and thermodynamics describe the behaviour of systems on the macroscopic scale. Their methods are applicable to a wide range of phenomena: from refrigerators to the interior of stars, from chemical reactions to magnetism. Indeed, of all physical laws, the laws of thermodynamics are perhaps the most universal. This text provides a concise yet thorough introduction to the key concepts which underlie statistical physics and thermodynamics.

It begins with a review of classical probability theory and quantum theory, as well as a careful discussion of the notions of information and entropy, prior to embarking on the development of statistical physics proper. The crucial steps leading from the microscopic to the macroscopic domain are rendered transparent. In particular, the laws of thermodynamics are shown to emerge as natural consequences of the statistical framework. While the emphasis is on clarifying the basic concepts, the text also contains many applications and classroom-tested exercises, covering all major topics of a standard course on statistical physics and thermodynamics.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780199595075
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	11/28/2017
Pages:	224
Product dimensions:	6.70(w) x 9.60(h) x 0.60(d)

About the Author

Jochen Rau, Professor of Mathematics, RheinMain University of Applied Sciences

Jochen Rau received degrees in physics and mathematics from Goethe University Frankfurt, University of Cambridge, and Duke University. He has taught theoretical physics at Goethe University Frankfurt and Ulm University, Germany, and is currently Professor of Mathematics at RheinMain University of Applied Sciences, Germany.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction1.1. The Challenge of Statistical Mechanics1.2. Classical Probability2. Quantum Theory2.1. Review of Basic Concepts2.2. Mixed States2.3. Composite Systems3. Constructing the State3.1. Information and Entropy3.2. Maximum Entropy Principle3.3. Thermodynamic Square3.4. Reproducible Processes and the Second Law3.5. Equilibrium and Temperature3.6. Fluctuations4. Simple Systems4.1. Harmonic Oscillator4.2. Rotor4.3. Spin in a Magnetic Field4.4. Paramagnet5. Thermodynamic Limit5.1. Homogeneity5.2. Stability5.3. Equivalence of Ensembles5.4. Four Laws6. Perfect Gas6.1. Generic Properties6.2. Continuum and Classical Limits6.3. Fermi Gas6.4. Bose—Einstein Condensation6.5. Photons6.6. Internal Dynamics6.7. Dilute Solution7. Processes and Responses7.1. Work and Heat7.2. Cycles, Barriers, and Reservoirs7.3. Potentials7.4. Equilibrium and Stability in the Presence of a Reservoir7.5. Coefficients8. Phase Transitions8.1. Coexistence of Phases8.2. First-Order Phase Transition8.3. Second-Order Phase Transition: Ising Model

Editorial Reviews

"Unlike authors who treat thermodynamics as a macroscopic study, Rau uses a ground-up approach, building an understanding of thermodynamic laws from microscopic statistics. He does this much more directly than authors of other texts do." — CHOICE

"This book offers a modern perspective on statistical physics and thermodynamics. It provides good explanations and carefully selected problems making it an ideal companion for lectures on these topics." — Otfried Guehne, University of Siegen, Germany

"With rare clarity and great insight, the author explicates the difficult subject matter of statistical mechanics and thermodynamics in eight compact chapters, from basic concepts to applications to phase transitions. His approach is both logical and systematic — and is timely with the advent of the quantum information era." Y Jack Ng, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

"This is not just another textbook on statistical thermodynamics because Jochen Rau manages to follow the logical path from quantum mechanics and information theory to statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, and practical applications with great clarity and competence. For students of physics, this concise textbook will be equally stimulating and rewarding." — Hans Christian Öttinger, Department of Materials, ETH Zürich

"What makes this book special is the cleverly chosen order in which the reader is walked through the fascinating landscape of statistical physics and thermodynamics. The route taken offers a modern overall perspective as well as a thorough understanding of how the different pieces fit together." — Renato Renner, Department of Physics, ETH Zürich

"With a powerful blend of the abstract and the concrete, Rau beautifully reveals how physical consequences emerge from their underlying statistical and quantum mechanical foundations. The writing is crisp and concise, the pedagogy clear and effective." — Alec Schramm, Occidental College, Los Angeles

"Statistical Physics and Thermodynamics is the fruit of several years of lecturing a very successful course at Ulm University. Jochen Rau's love for teaching is reflected in the careful preparation of this book and becomes apparent when reading it. Indeed, he invested much effort in its preparation and delivered the course with great enthusiasm and engagement, so much so that he was awarded the Goldene Kreide "golden chalk", an award given by students to best lecturer of the semester." — Martin B. Plenio, Ulm University

From the Publisher