Discover the Best Literature on Thermodynamics and Plasmas for Beginners

[veselyi]

Hi all.

Could anybody please advise me some good books on Thermodynamics to begin with? My current level of Physics is some decent E&M and that's about it. Also, if anyone happens to know some decent, introductory literature on plasmas and soft x-ray/euv lasers, I would appreciate.

Thanks!

 

[Pinu7]

I have a small book on thermodynamics based of some lectures by Fermi, it is a great introduction. Probably my favorite physics book.
Beautifully written.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/048660361X/?tag=pfamazon01-20

 

[charng]

I would recommend starting with the basics of thermodynamics by reading "Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach" by Yunus A. Cengel and Michael A. Boles. This textbook covers the fundamental concepts of thermodynamics in a clear and concise manner, making it a great resource for beginners.

For an introduction to plasmas, I would suggest "Introduction to Plasma Physics and Controlled Fusion" by Francis F. Chen. This book provides a comprehensive overview of plasma physics and its applications, including plasma heating and confinement, fusion reactors, and plasma diagnostics.

For a more specific focus on soft x-ray and extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lasers, I would recommend "Soft X-Rays and Extreme Ultraviolet Radiation: Principles and Applications" by David Attwood. This book covers the principles of EUV and soft x-ray generation, as well as their applications in fields such as lithography, materials science, and biomedicine.

Additionally, I would suggest checking out online resources such as lectures, tutorials, and articles from reputable sources such as universities and research institutions. These can provide a more interactive and visual learning experience, and can often be accessed for free.

Overall, my advice would be to start with a solid understanding of the principles of thermodynamics and then move on to more specific topics such as plasmas and lasers. And don't be afraid to explore different resources and formats to find what works best for you as a beginner in these fields. Best of luck in your studies!