Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics book

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on recommended textbooks for studying Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics, particularly for students in non-English courses. Key recommendations include "Equilibrium Thermodynamics" by Adkins and "Basic Thermodynamics" by Gerald Carrington, both published by Cambridge and Oxford respectively. The monograph by Fermi is noted for its usefulness, though it lacks exercises. Additionally, Dr. Tong's notes on statistical mechanics and Reif's "Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics" are highlighted as valuable resources.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of thermal physics concepts
  • Familiarity with statistical mechanics terminology
  • Ability to navigate academic resources in English
  • Access to recommended textbooks and online notes
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "Equilibrium Thermodynamics" by Adkins for foundational concepts
  • Explore "Basic Thermodynamics" by Gerald Carrington for practical applications
  • Review Dr. Tong's notes on statistical mechanics for supplementary learning
  • Investigate Reif's "Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics" for advanced insights
USEFUL FOR

Students enrolled in Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics courses, particularly those in international programs seeking reliable English-language resources.

Mépris
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Hey guys,

I've never studied this subject before (except basic thermal physics in high school), and I have a course on it this semester. I'm in a semi international program, and this course isn't taught in English (but the tutorials are, thankfully), so I will need to study on my own.

In general, the English references aren't necessarily reliable, and the teachers just picked a few random books. So far, we've only had one teacher who went through the trouble of properly looking for suitable books to help the foreign students. Which is why I turn to you.

Here is a link to the course description.

Wasn't sure how to tag this as, and my browser was acting out. Sorry if I chose the wrong one.

Thanks!
 
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The books by Adkins, and by Carruthers, both published by Cambridge, are excellent introductions. The monograph by Fermi is also very useful, but it does not contain exercises.
 
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Do you mean Equilibrium Thermodynamics by Adkins? This one, I've found, but I can't even find the title of the other book!

What is its actual name?

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll take a look at it.

If others have anything else to suggest, feel free.
 
Yes. That's the Adkins book. As for the others, I gave your an incorrect author - creeping senility -I should have said Carrington, not Carruthers!
Basic Thermodynamics (Oxford Science Publications) Paperback – August 4, 1994
by Gerald Carrington https://www.amazon.com/dp/0198517475/?tag=pfamazon01-20ISBN-13: 978-0198517474 ISBN-10: 0198517475 Edition: 1st
 
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I've used Schroeder and I somewhat recommend against it. It seems to be very elementary in scope and application and I had a hard time with his style of writing. I would however recommend Dr Tong's notes on statistical mechanics,

http://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/user/tong/statphys/sp.pdf

and Reif's book titled "Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics".
 

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