Fundamentals Of Statistical And Thermal Physics

All macroscopic systems consist ultimately of atoms obeying the laws of quantum mechanics. That premise forms the basis for this comprehensive text, intended for a first upper-level course in statistical and thermal physics. Reif emphasizes that the combination of microscopic concepts with some statistical postulates leads readily to conclusions on a purely macroscopic level. The authors writing style and penchant for description energize interest in condensed matter physics as well as provide a conceptual grounding with information that is crystal clear and memorable.Reif first introduces basic probability concepts and statistical methods used throughout all of physics. Statistical ideas are then applied to systems of particles in equilibrium to enhance an understanding of the basic notions of statistical mechanics, from which derive the purely macroscopic general statements of thermodynamics. Next, he turns to the more complicated equilibrium situations, such as phase transformations and quantum gases, before discussing nonequilibrium situations in which he treats transport theory and dilute gases at varying levels of sophistication. In the last chapter, he addresses some general questions involving irreversible processes and fluctuations.A large amount of material is presented to facilitate students later access to more advanced works, to allow those with higher levels of curiosity to read beyond the minimum given on a topic, and to enhance understanding by presenting several ways of looking at a particular question. Formatting within the text either signals material that instructors can assign at their own discretion or highlights important results for easy reference to them. Additionally, by solving many of the 230 problems contained in the text, students activate and embed their knowledge of the subject matter.

Fundamentals of statistical and thermal physics

In this talk, we present the basic elements of thermal wave physics with a particular emphasis on the propagation and scattering of thermal waves. The most significant aspects of thermal waves in terms of their potential for materials characterization will be shown using simple examples and a minimum of mathematical analysis. Although most practical applications require a full 3-dimensional analysis for quantitative interpretation, much of the physics can be qualitatively understood in terms of a simpler 1-dimensional treatment appropriately modified to account for 3-dimensional effects. Following a prescription for the rigorous 3-dimensional analysis we discuss some of the implications in terms of the simpler modified 1-dimensional model. To emphasize the practical aspects of thermal wave physics we next describe a highly sensitive optical method for detecting thermal waves that is nondestructive and capable of making quantitative measurements of material properties. Finally, to illustrate the rapid evolution of this field, we conclude by presenting some recent results on semiconductors which are a combination of thermal and electronic effects and potentially significant for their sensitivity to surface conditions. 041b061a72