An Introduction to Thermal Physics by Schroder - any thoughts

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on "An Introduction to Thermal Physics" by Daniel V. Schroeder, highlighting its accessibility and the importance of supplementary materials. Key recommendations include reviewing the appendices, basic combinatorics, the ideal gas law, and fundamental concepts in magnetism and quantum mechanics. Participants emphasize the lack of worked examples in the book, suggesting that additional resources may be necessary for comprehensive understanding.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic combinatorics and combinatoric probability
  • Understanding of the ideal gas law
  • Fundamental concepts in magnetism, including susceptibility and paramagnetism
  • Introductory quantum mechanics, specifically harmonic oscillators and square well energy levels
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the appendices of "An Introduction to Thermal Physics" by Schroeder
  • Study basic fluid mechanics and pressure concepts
  • Explore supplementary textbooks on thermal physics for additional worked examples
  • Research advanced topics in magnetism and quantum mechanics relevant to thermal physics
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for courses in thermal physics, educators seeking supplemental materials, and anyone interested in enhancing their understanding of thermal and statistical physics concepts.

aLearner
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Hi! I'll be covering the above book next semester and was wondering if there is anything I should be particularly aware of about thermal physics.
-aLearner
 
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I would read the appendices. I found them very helpful. Also, that book f***ing rules.
 
I think that the mathematics in thermal and statistical physics at the level of Schroeder is quite easy. Some derivatives, a logarithm or two (thousand), etc. I would review basic counting (cominatorics) and combinatoric probability. I would also refamiliarize yourself with the ideal gas law. It would benefit you to also review some basic concepts of magnetism (for example, you should know what susceptibility is and know what paramagnetism is) as well as very baby quantum mechanics (the harmonic oscillator and square well energy levels for example, nothing too complicated). Review baby fluid mechanics and pressure.
 
get another book to supplement it. there are no worked examples, and he leaves many crucial concepts for the problems, which your instructor may not assign.
 

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