Thermodynamics and Introductory Statistical Mechanics

A Clear and Concise Introduction to the Basic Theories of and Linkages Between Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics Thermodynamics is concerned with the macroscopic properties of matter. Statistical mechanics, on the other hand, relates and interprets the properties of a macroscopic system in terms of its microscopic units. Thermodynamics and Introductory Statistical Mechanics covers the necessary mathematical tools and computational techniques for understanding both, first providing a separate overview of each and then illustrating and exploring the connections between the two. Placing equal emphasis on fundamentals and applications, this clear and insightful text covers: Thermodynamics——basic concepts and definitions, laws, general conditions for equilibrium and stability, phase and chemical equilibria Introductory statistical mechanics——principles, thermodynamic connection, molecular partition function, statistical mechanical applications Mathematical techniques for highlighting exact and inexact differentials, partial derivatives, Caratheodory’s theorem, Legendre transformation, and combinatory analysis Subtleties and conceptual difficulties are addressed head–on, while ten problem sets and solutions reflect and illuminate the content covered. For advanced undergraduate and graduate students as well as professionals, Thermodynamics and Introductory Statistical Mechanics provides an introduction and review that is both concise and comprehensive.