Statistical Mechanics in a Nutshell

Description

Statistical mechanics is one of the most exciting areas of physics today, and it also has applications to subjects as diverse as economics, social behavior, algorithmic theory, and evolutionary biology. Statistical Mechanics in a Nutshell offers the most concise, self-contained introduction to this rapidly developing field. Requiring only a background in elementary calculus and elementary mechanics, this book starts with the basics, introduces the most important developments in classical statistical mechanics over the last thirty years, and guides readers to the very threshold of today's cutting-edge research. Statistical Mechanics in a Nutshell zeroes in on the most relevant and promising advances in the field, including the theory of phase transitions, generalized Brownian motion and stochastic dynamics, the methods underlying Monte Carlo simulations, complex systems--and much, much more. The essential resource on the subject, this book is the most up-to-date and accessible introduction available for graduate students and advanced undergraduates seeking a succinct primer on the core ideas of statistical mechanics. * Provides the most concise, self-contained introduction to statistical mechanics * Focuses on the most promising advances, not complicated calculations * Requires only elementary calculus and elementary mechanics * Guides readers from the basics to the threshold of modern research * Highlights the broad scope of applications of statistical mechanics

Luca Peliti is professor of statistical mechanics at the University of Naples Federico II in Italy. His books include "Biologically Inspired Physics".

"Unlike typical textbooks ... [Statistical Mechanics in a Nutshell] presents statistical mechanics as a more general theory with broader applications... A graduate student or researcher who wants to explore the applications of statistical mechanics would be very well served by this book."--Choice "Peliti's Statistical Mechanics in a Nutshell is a fantastic reference for those who know the subject, teach it, or need a quick technical reminder, especially on the topic of phase transitions, which are consistently featured in modern-day discussions... Statistical Mechanics in a Nutshell provides the more general overview, with topics such as the renormalization group method. It includes a good mix of fundamental thermodynamics, phase behaviour, and other key subjects."--Physics Today