

Definitions and interpretations of Helmholtz and Gibbs free energies applications to electrochemistry, phase transformations, mixtures, dilute solutions, and chemical equilibrium. Chapter 5: Free Energy and Chemical Thermodynamics.Derivation of limits on efficiency from the laws of thermodynamics Carnot cycle realistic cycles for internal combustion engines, steam engines, and refrigeration methods of reaching very low temperatures. Temperature, pressure, and chemical potential as partial derivatives of the entropy the relation between entropy and heat prediction of heat capacities and other thermal properties of a paramagnet, Einstein solid, and ideal gas (all microcanonical). Chapter 3: Interactions and Implications.Fundamental statistical ideas applied to two-state systems and the Einstein solid model analysis of two interacting Einstein solids, leading to the second law multiplicity of an ideal gas statistical definition of entropy. An overview of temperature, ideal gases, equipartition, the first law, heat capacities, and transport processes. Although thebook contains plenty of advanced material for a longer course (especially in the problems), you can cover all the fundamentals and most of theapplications in a three-hour, one-semester course.Ĭontents Summary ( click here for fullcontents) Part I: Fundamentals

Short enough for a one-semester course.The book isfull of applications to condensed matter physics, astrophysics, chemistry, earth science, engineering, and everyday life. In selecting material I'vetried to emphasize what is immediately and obviously applicable to thereal world. A concurrent course in multivariable calculus isrecommended but not absolutely necessary. Before reading this book you shouldhave taken a calculus-based introductory physics course, not necessarilyincluding thermodynamics. I'd rather talk to you directlythan pontificate in the passive voice. This organizationalplan highlights the most important principles, and gives readers and instructorsa great deal of flexibility in choosing what topics to cover. Each chapter introducesone or two powerful tools and then applies these tools to a variety ofphenomena. Fundamentals come first, then thermodynamicsapplications, then statistical mechanics applications. Both the macroscopic and microscopicviewpoints have their advantages, so I've tried to present and use both,without giving undue emphasis to either. A balanced treatment of classical thermodynamics andstatistical mechanics.This textbook is intended for use in undergraduate courses in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, at the sophomore through senior level. Schroeder, Department of Physics, Weber State University An Introduction to Thermal Physics - Overview An Introduction to Thermal Physicsĭaniel V.
