Statistical Mechanics and Applications in Condensed Matter

Di Castro, Carlo; Raimondi, Roberto

Rilegato

ISBN 10: 1107039401 ISBN 13: 9781107039407

Casa editrice: Cambridge University Press, 2015

This innovative and modular textbook combines classical topics in thermodynamics, statistical mechanics and many-body theory with the latest developments in condensed matter physics research. Written by internationally renowned experts and logically structured to cater for undergraduate and postgraduate students and researchers, it covers the underlying theoretical principles and includes numerous problems and worked examples to put this knowledge into practice. Three main streams provide a framework for the book; beginning with thermodynamics and classical statistical mechanics, including mean field approximation, fluctuations and the renormalization group approach to critical phenomena. The authors then examine quantum statistical mechanics, covering key topics such as normal Fermi and Luttinger liquids, superfluidity and superconductivity. Finally, they explore classical and quantum kinetics, Anderson localization and quantum interference, and disordered Fermi liquids. Unique in providing a bridge between thermodynamics and advanced topics in condensed matter, this textbook is an invaluable resource to all students of physics.

Recensione:

'... a coherent presentation of classical thermodynamics and statistical physics on [the] one hand, and more recent developments and the front of contemporary research on the other ... it [is] well suited for students and graduates as well as researchers. I recommend it!' Peter Fulde, Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems, Dresden

'An excellent textbook which starts from the basics, classical thermodynamics and quantum statistical mechanics, and proceeds to an insightful exposition of a wide range of modern topics.' Maurice Rice, Institute for Theoretical Physics, ETH Zurich

'With its exceptionally broad range of topics, from basic theoretical techniques to numerous applications, ranging from phase transitions to quantum gases and disordered electron systems, this textbook is a most valuable asset for the condensed matter community. Two renowned experts have conflated their expertise, for the benefit of students and researchers alike.' Ulrich Eckern, University of Augsburg

'This book amply fulfils the promise in the preface that it will provide 'a bridge from thermodynamics and statistical mechanics towards many-body theory and its applications'. Students, teachers and researchers will all benefit from it.' Joel Lebowitz, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

'With exceptional clarity this book treats every topic from the beginning. It thus succeeds in being pedagogically effective while still capturing the interest of the expert. It is truly unique in connecting key ideas of statistical mechanics, [such as] the renormalization group, to many-body theories of electronic systems.' Giovanni Vignale, University of Missouri, Columbia

'... this remarkable book provides access to several modern subject areas in condensed matter physics within a single monograph. Both authors are internationally acknowledged experts in condensed matter theory, with Carlo Di Castro being one of the founding fathers of the field-theoretic renormalization group approach to critical phenomena. In view of the broad spectrum of topics the author's suggestions of how to use the book for regular courses on, for example, introductory statistical mechanics, critical phenomena, dissipative phenomena in classical and quantum systems, or modern trends in quantum statistical mechanics, are very helpful. This book is an impressive achievement. It will be very useful not only to graduate students but also to experienced researchers in modern condensed matter physics. I recommend it highly - it belongs in every physics library.' Dieter Vollhardt, Universität Augsburg

'The authors, whose competence is beyond doubt, employ a well-considered approach to bridge background statistical mechanics topics, standard condensed matter physics applications, and a limited but inspiring choice of advanced and timely many-body themes ... Statistical Mechanics and Applications in Condensed Matter is a well-designed, user-friendly text that represents an impressive and successful effort to synthesize modern aspects of condensed matter and many-body phenomena. I have no doubt that this book will soon be found - and deservedly so - in physics libraries and on the bookshelves of many students and researchers.' Erio Tosatti, Physics Today

Descrizione del libro:

This innovative and modular textbook combines established classical topics in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics with the latest developments in condensed matter physics research. Logically structured to cater for undergraduate to postgraduate level, and including numerous problems and worked examples, it is an invaluable resource to all students of physics.