Statistical mechanics textbooks?

AI Thread Summary
For those seeking a statistical mechanics textbook suitable for advanced undergraduate study, several recommendations emerged in the discussion. "Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics" by C. Garrod is highlighted for its integration of statistical mechanics and thermodynamics through probability theory, making it ideal for self-study, especially for those familiar with classical thermodynamics. Other notable suggestions include "Introduction to Modern Statistical Mechanics" by David Chandler, "Statistical Mechanics: Theory and Molecular Simulation" by Mark Tuckerman, and "Statistical Mechanics" by R.K. Pathria. These texts are recognized for their comprehensive coverage of topics such as thermodynamics, kinetic theory, and phase transitions, along with a robust set of problems for practice. Selecting the right textbook may depend on individual interests and learning preferences, so reviewing sample chapters and feedback is advisable.
cragwolf
Messages
169
Reaction score
0
I'm searching for a statistical mechanics textbook. It should be roughly at or above the advanced undergraduate level, have a decent set of problems, be reasonably thorough, and be ideal for self-study. I would be grateful for any recommendations.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I think "Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics" by C. Garrod is pretty good. It treats statistical mMechanics and thermodynamics as an application of probability theory. It helps if you have a decent understanding of classical thermodynamics.

C. Garrod, Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics
(ISBN 0-19-508523-X, Oxford Univ.Press, 1995)
 


There are many great statistical mechanics textbooks available that meet the criteria you listed. Some popular options include "Introduction to Modern Statistical Mechanics" by David Chandler, "Statistical Mechanics: Theory and Molecular Simulation" by Mark Tuckerman, and "Statistical Mechanics" by R.K. Pathria. These textbooks are typically used at the advanced undergraduate or graduate level and cover a wide range of topics in statistical mechanics, including thermodynamics, kinetic theory, and phase transitions. They also have a good selection of problems for practice and self-study. Ultimately, the best textbook for you will depend on your specific interests and learning style, so I recommend checking out reviews and sample chapters to find the one that best suits your needs.
 
The book is fascinating. If your education includes a typical math degree curriculum, with Lebesgue integration, functional analysis, etc, it teaches QFT with only a passing acquaintance of ordinary QM you would get at HS. However, I would read Lenny Susskind's book on QM first. Purchased a copy straight away, but it will not arrive until the end of December; however, Scribd has a PDF I am now studying. The first part introduces distribution theory (and other related concepts), which...
I've gone through the Standard turbulence textbooks such as Pope's Turbulent Flows and Wilcox' Turbulent modelling for CFD which mostly Covers RANS and the closure models. I want to jump more into DNS but most of the work i've been able to come across is too "practical" and not much explanation of the theory behind it. I wonder if there is a book that takes a theoretical approach to Turbulence starting from the full Navier Stokes Equations and developing from there, instead of jumping from...

Similar threads

Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
3K
Replies
39
Views
7K
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
47
Views
5K
Replies
2
Views
3K
Back
Top