From Microphysics to Macrophysics: Methods and Applications of Statistical Physics, Volume 1This popular, often cited text returns in a softcover edition to provide a thorough introduction to statistical physics and thermodynamics, and to exhibit the universality of the chain of ideas leading from the laws of microphysics to the macroscopic behaviour of matter. A wide range of applications illustrates the concepts, and many exercises reinforce understanding. Volume I discusses the probabilistic description of quantum or classical systems, the Boltzmann-Gibbs distributions, the conservation laws, and the interpretation of entropy as missing information. Thermodynamics and electromagnetism in matter are dealt with, as well as applications to dilute and condensed gases, and to phase transitions. |
Contents
Introduction | 1 |
Contents of Volume II | 10 |
Paramagnetism of Ionic Solids 15 | 14 |
Problems | 16 |
Probabilistic Description of Systems | 49 |
Information Theory and Statistical Entropy | 101 |
The BoltzmannGibbs Distribution | 141 |
3 | 165 |
Thermodynamics Revisited | 181 |
On the Proper Use of Equilibrium Thermodynamics 241 | 240 |
The Perfect Gas | 307 |
Summary | 337 |
Molecular Properties of Gases | 349 |
Condensation of Gases and Phase Transitions | 391 |
| 449 | |
Units and Physical Constants 462 | 461 |
Other editions - View all
From Microphysics to Macrophysics: Methods and Applications of Statistical ... Roger Balian No preview available - 1991 |
Common terms and phrases
adiabatic approximation associated assume atoms average Boltzmann-Gibbs distribution calculate canonical equilibrium characterized chemical potential conjugate consider constant d³p d³r defined degrees of freedom density in phase density operator derivatives described disorder eigenvalues electrons equal equation evaluate evolution exchanges expectation value expression fact factor field fluctuations fluid free energy gases given grand canonical ensemble grand potential Hamiltonian Hilbert space instance intensive variables interactions internal energy introduce isothermal kets kinetic Lagrangian multiplier Legendre transform liquid macroscopic magnetic moments maximum measure micro-states microcanonical microscopic scale momentum motion number of particles observables paramagnetic parameters partition function perfect gas phase space pressure probability law properties quantities quantum mechanics relation result rôle rotation specific heat spin statistical ensemble statistical entropy statistical mechanics statistical physics subsystems temperature theory thermal equilibrium thermodynamic potential thermostat velocity zero