Statistical Physics An Entropic Approach

This undergraduate textbook provides a statistical mechanicalfoundation to the classical laws of thermodynamics via acomprehensive treatment of the basics of classical thermodynamics,equilibrium statistical mechanics, irreversible thermodynamics, andthe statistical mechanics of non-equilibrium phenomena.This timely book has a unique focus on the concept of entropy,which is studied starting from the well-known ideal gas law,employing various thermodynamic processes, example systems andinterpretations to expose its role in the second law ofthermodynamics. This modern treatment of statistical physicsincludes studies of neutron stars, superconductivity and therecently developed fluctuation theorems. It also presents figuresand problems in a clear and concise way, aiding the student’sunderstanding.