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An engaging undergraduate introduction to the statistical mechanics of phase transitions
Statistical mechanics deploys a powerful set of mathematical approaches for studying the thermodynamic properties of complex physical systems. This textbook introduces students to the statistical mechanics of systems undergoing changes of state, focusing on the basic principles for classifying distinct thermodynamic phases and the critical phenomena associated with transitions between them. Uniquely designed to promote active learning, Statistical Mechanics of Phases and Phase Transitions presents some of the most beautiful and profound concepts in physics, enabling students to obtain an essential understanding of a computationally challenging subject without getting lost in the details.
Provides a self-contained, conceptually deep introduction to the statistical mechanics of phases and phase transitions from a modern perspectiveCarefully leads students from spontaneously broken symmetries to the universality of phase transitions and the renormalization groupEncourages student-centric active learning suitable for both the classroom and self-studyFeatures a wealth of guided worksheets with full solutions throughout the book that help students learn by doingIncludes informative appendixes that cover key mathematical concepts and methodsIdeal for undergraduate physics majors and beginning graduate studentsSolutions manual for all end-of-chapter problems (available only to instructors)
Preface
A Notational Note
Acknowledgements
Overview
Background: Fundamentals of Statistical Mechanics
The Ising Model
Mean-Field Theory
Broken Symmetries
The Landau Free Energy
Ginzburg-Landau Theory
The Self-Consistent Gaussian Approximation
Quenched Disorder
Renormalization Group Perspective
Appendices
Worksheet Solutions
Index