Time's Arrow: The Origins of Thermodynamic Behavior

by Michael C. Mackey

Exploration of Second Law of Thermodynamics details fundamental dynamic properties behind construction of statistical mechanics. Topics include maximal entropy principles; invertible and noninvertible systems; ergodicity and unique equilibria; and asymptotic periodicity and entropy evolution. Geared toward physicists and applied mathematicians; suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses. 1992 edition.

Genres: Nonfiction, Science

190 pages, Paperback

First published December 3, 1991

Reviews

[William Schram · Rating 4 out of 5]

I happened upon this at my library and I am not disappointed in it. Honestly, the biggest problem with this book is my own ignorance and lack of mathematical background. Time's Arrow: The Origins of Thermodynamic Behavior doesn't screw around; it goes into the thick of it in the preface. I had to refer to Wikipedia on numerous occasions and even after that I don't think I fully understand it. So what I need is a book that will describe Set Theory to me as though I was a child of 7 or so.

Anyway, this book was pretty good. I enjoyed it a lot despite the lack of total understanding. There are some other things about the book that were disappointing, but it didn't take away from the book too much. For instance, there are no problems to work out on your own. I suppose the author leaves some proofs as exercises, but I mean actual numbered problems. I guess this book is a bit more advanced than numbered problems though.