Looking for a good introductory book on thermodynamics

In summary, the conversation focused on recommendations for a good introductory book on thermodynamics. Some suggestions included the Berkeley physics course volume on thermodynamics, H.B. Callen's Thermodynamics and an Introduction to Thermostatistics, Fundamentals of Engineering Thermodynamics by Moran et al, Pippard's Elements of Classical Thermodynamics, Castellan's Physical Chemistry, Kardar's Statistical Physics of Particles, and Schroeder's An Introduction to Thermal Physics.
  • #1
al_9591
12
0
Hi,

I have been studying physics again and I was looking for a good introductory book for thermodynamics. I wanted to know if there is a book in thermodynamics that would be the equivalent to "An introduction to Mechanics" by Kleppner/Kolenkow, or "Electricity and Magnetism" by Purcell? These 2 books were my favorite back in the day. Thanks.
 
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  • #2
The thermodynamics volume of the Berkeley physics course is good (the "little Reif"). Another very good one is

H. B. Callen, Thermodynamics and an Introduction to Thermostatistics, John Wiley&Sons, New York, Chichester,
Brisbane, Toronto, Singapore, 2 edn. (1985).
 
  • #3
I strongly recommend Fundamentals of Engineering Thermodynamics by Moran et al which has a particularly nice (alternative) development of the concept of entropy in Chapter 6. This book is available for download online.
 
  • #4
I liked Pippard's Elements of Classical Thermodynamics.
https://books.google.com.sg/books/a...dynamics_For.html?id=GVhaSQ7eBQoC&redir_esc=y

Not a pure thermodynamics book, but Castellan's Physical Chemistry is also nice.
https://books.google.com.sg/books/a...AAMAAJ&source=kp_book_description&redir_esc=y

Kardar's Statistical Physics of Particles is not an introductory book, but has a very succinct development of thermodynamics
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0521873428/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/physics...chanics-of-particles-fall-2013/lecture-notes/

I haven't read Schroeder's An Introduction to Thermal Physics - would love to hear if anyone has comments on it.
https://physics.weber.edu/thermal/overview.html
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0201380277/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
Last edited:

1. What is thermodynamics and why is it important?

Thermodynamics is the branch of science that deals with the study of energy and its transformations. It is important because it helps us understand and predict the behavior of matter and energy in various systems, from the smallest particles to the largest structures in the universe.

2. What are the key concepts and principles of thermodynamics?

The key concepts and principles of thermodynamics include the laws of thermodynamics, which govern the behavior of energy in a system, and the concepts of heat, temperature, and entropy. Other important concepts include work, internal energy, and the different types of thermodynamic processes.

3. How can I apply thermodynamics in my everyday life?

Thermodynamics has many practical applications in our daily lives, from heating and cooling systems to cooking and refrigeration. It can also help us understand the behavior of engines, power plants, and other energy systems. Additionally, thermodynamics plays a crucial role in fields such as chemistry, biology, and environmental science.

4. What are some good introductory books on thermodynamics?

Some popular introductory books on thermodynamics include "Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach" by Yunus A. Çengel and Michael A. Boles, "Thermodynamics: Concepts and Applications" by Stephen R. Turns, and "Thermodynamics for Dummies" by Mike Pauken. It is important to choose a book that is suitable for your level of understanding and covers the topics you are interested in.

5. Are there any online resources for learning thermodynamics?

Yes, there are many online resources available for learning thermodynamics, such as video lectures, interactive simulations, and online courses. Some recommended websites include Khan Academy, MIT OpenCourseWare, and Coursera. It is also helpful to join online forums or discussion groups where you can ask questions and interact with other learners and experts in the field.

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