Statistical Mechanics in a Nutshell, Second Edition

Luca Peliti, Anthony Zee

$145

Hardback

Forthcoming
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English

Princeton University Press
01 December 2024

Mathematics & Sciences; Dynamics & statics; Quantum physics (quantum mechanics & quantum field theory)

Series: In a Nutshell

The essential introduction to modern statistical mechanics

now completely updated and expanded.

Statistical mechanics is one of the most exciting areas of physics today and has applications to subjects ranging from economics and social behavior to algorithmic theory and evolutionary biology. Statistical Mechanics in a Nutshell provides a self-contained introduction to this rapidly developing field. Starting with the basics of kinetic theory and requiring only a background in elementary calculus and mechanics, this concise book discusses the most important developments of recent decades and guides readers to the very threshold of today's cutting-edge research.

Features a new chapter on stochastic thermodynamics with an introduction to the thermodynamics of information

the first treatment of its kind in an introductory textbook Offers a more detailed account of numerical simulations, including simulated annealing and other accelerated Monte Carlo methods The chapter on complex systems now features an accessible introduction to the replica theory of spin glasses and the Hopfield theory of neural networks, with an emphasis on applications Provides a new discussion of defect-mediated transitions and their implications for two-dimensional melting An invaluable resource for graduate students and advanced undergraduates seeking a compact primer on the core ideas of statistical mechanics Solutions manual (available only to instructors)

By: Luca Peliti
Foreword by: Anthony Zee
Imprint: Princeton University Press
Country of Publication: United States
Edition: 2nd edition
Dimensions: Height: 254mm, Width: 178mm,
ISBN: 9780691248424
ISBN 10: 0691248427
Series: In a Nutshell
Pages: 576
Publication Date: 01 December 2024
Audience: College/higher education , Professional and scholarly , Primary , Undergraduate
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Luca Peliti is deputy director of the Santa Marinella Research Institute and professor emeritus of statistical mechanics at the University of Naples Federico II. He is the author (with Simone Pigolotti) of Stochastic Thermodynamics: An Introduction (Princeton).

Reviews for Statistical Mechanics in a Nutshell, Second Edition

"""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 behavior, and other key subjects."" * Physics Today * ""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 Reviews *"