Can anyone recommend a good calculus review?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the need for a calculus review in the context of studying statistical mechanics using the textbook "Thermodynamics and an Introduction to Thermostatics" by Callen. The user expresses difficulty in understanding derivatives, particularly in expressions involving the Boltzmann factor and frequency terms. Recommendations include studying calculus through texts such as "Methods of Modern Mathematical Physics" by Arfken and "Mathematical Methods for Physics" by Courant and Hilbert to strengthen foundational knowledge.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic calculus concepts, including derivatives and sums.
  • Familiarity with statistical mechanics principles, particularly the Boltzmann factor.
  • Knowledge of thermodynamic functions, such as internal energy (U) and heat capacity (Cv).
  • Experience with mathematical physics textbooks, specifically "Thermodynamics and an Introduction to Thermostatics" by Callen.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study calculus derivatives and sums using "Methods of Modern Mathematical Physics" by Arfken.
  • Review "Mathematical Methods for Physics" by Courant and Hilbert for advanced calculus techniques.
  • Explore the application of the Boltzmann factor in statistical mechanics.
  • Practice solving problems related to internal energy (U) and heat capacity (Cv) in thermodynamics.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying statistical mechanics, particularly those needing a refresher in calculus, as well as educators and tutors looking for resources to recommend for mathematical foundations in physics.

pt176900
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I am taking statistical mechanics this quarter, using the textbook Thermodynamics and an intro to thermostatics by Callen.

The math in the derivations is from calculus, which I had 4 years ago and didn't really put all that much effort into.

Consequently, I need a solid review of some basic mathematics (and by basic I mean calculus :-p)

For instance, I have no clue how to take the derivative of a sum, containing terms such as (ln(1-e^-Bx))
F = Kb T sum(ln(1-e^-Bhw))
where B is the Boltzmann factor, h is h bar and w is omega (the frequency).
then I have no clue how to go from there to Cv = dU/dT
U = d/dB(BF)

a grim situation indeed
 
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marlon
 
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pt176900 said:
I am taking statistical mechanics this quarter, using the textbook Thermodynamics and an intro to thermostatics by Callen.

The math in the derivations is from calculus, which I had 4 years ago and didn't really put all that much effort into.

Consequently, I need a solid review of some basic mathematics (and by basic I mean calculus :-p)

For instance, I have no clue how to take the derivative of a sum, containing terms such as (ln(1-e^-Bx))
F = Kb T sum(ln(1-e^-Bhw))
where B is the Boltzmann factor, h is h bar and w is omega (the frequency).
then I have no clue how to go from there to Cv = dU/dT
U = d/dB(BF)

a grim situation indeed

That's weird...It means you're using another (certainly newer) version of Callen. :eek: The one i knew didn't have statistical mechanics.It is a very good book on thermodynamics (in its first edition it was the first to give a reasonable treatment of neogibbsian formulation of (equilibrium) thermodynamics) and i strongly recconmend you study it...
As for calculus,i'd still go for Hilbert & Courant and Arfken...

Daniel.
 

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