Is there much difference between these 2 books by F.Reif?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the comparison between "Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics" and "Statistical Physics: Berkeley Physics Course in SI Units (Volume - 5)", both authored by F. Reif. Participants conclude that "Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics" offers a more advanced treatment of statistical mechanics compared to the introductory nature of the Berkeley Physics Course text. While the Berkeley text is recommended for foundational understanding, the former is deemed essential for deeper insights and problem-solving in the field. Readers are advised to consider their current level of study before purchasing the more advanced book.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of statistical mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with thermal physics concepts
  • Basic knowledge of mathematical manipulation in physics
  • Experience with problem-solving in physics contexts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research advanced statistical mechanics topics in "Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics"
  • Explore problem sets and solutions in both texts for practical application
  • Review supplementary materials for the Berkeley Physics Course to reinforce foundational concepts
  • Investigate other recommended texts for statistical mechanics at the graduate level
USEFUL FOR

Graduate students in physics, educators teaching statistical mechanics, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of thermal physics concepts will benefit from this discussion.

Phy_Reason
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Hey all!
I was hoping if you could make some suggestions regarding the following:

I am thinking of buying "Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics" by F.Reif, as it is the recommended book for Statistical Mechanics in my department, where I am doing M.Sc in Physics.
But I already have "Statistical Physics: Berkeley Physics Course in SI Units (Volume - 5)" by F.Reif.
So, my question is there: Is there a substantial difference between the coverage/level-of-coverage between these two books; or are they more less the same? Should I consider buying "Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics" by F.Reif?

Thanks!
 
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Unfortunately, he usually has more to say than you want to listen to; crucial points are often obscured by protracted discussion and excessive mathematical manipulation. You sort of need to read between the lines to extract the important stuff, but that shouldn't be a problem if you have a good prof. And to Reif's credit, it has a lot of neat problems.
here is something written about the "Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics".

As I only used the Berkeley Physics Course Text and read "Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics" only once in library, it seems more advanced.Also Berkeley Physics Course is an Introductory Text.
 

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