Elements of Statistical Thermodynamics

by Leonard K. Nash

This concise, elementary treatment illustrates the ways in which an atomic-molecular perspective yields new insights into macroscopic thermodynamics. Starting with an analysis of some very simple microcanonical ensembles, it proceeds to the Boltzmann distribution law and a systematic exploration of the proper formulation, evaluation, and application of partition functions. 1974 edition.

Genres: Chemistry, Nonfiction

144 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1965

Reviews

[Steve Stuart · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a concise, but very readable, introduction to statistical thermodynamics. It's similar to the book by Maczek in that it aims to present all of the basics in a very slim volume, with little digression on examples, applications, or extraneous discussion. This book is a bit chattier however, with a fairly slow-paced introduction to statistics and derivation of Boltzmann statistics. This is followed by all of the standard examples for non-interacting particles: ideal gases, heat capacities of solids, and equilibrium constants. Very few numerical examples are given, although a small collection of about 30 problems gives some chance for a student to apply the material. (Several of these are "show that..." problems, however, used mainly to flesh out assertions made in the text without proof.)

As with the Maczek primer, this book would not be the optimal place to learn statistical thermodynamics, but would certainly work in a pinch, or as a brief introduction. The Maczek book is a little more modern, with a few more applications, but the Nash text is easier to read and makes a little more effort to explain the logic behind and implications of each result.

[R. P. Student · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've tried to read many textbooks that claim to guide the student through difficult subjects with only "high school level" or "freshman level" pre-requisites, and most of them do not deliver.

However, this book provides a completely understandable and easy to follow introduction to statistical thermodynamics, and is perfect especially for those who self-study.

Yes, the contents covered are not truly complete, and terminologies of the different types of assemblies are not fully introduced here. The pacing is also relatively slower than other textbooks. However, as a student, this will give you a far better grounding for further studies than other textbooks which only give terse explanations for incredibly fundamental topics and expect you to work a lot of it out yourself.

Although some may notch a star for its lack of full coverage of advanced topics and applications, I'd say in this case that's by design. As a student, I do not appreciate textbooks which are written like reference books or technical dictionaries. Unlike such books, this book knows its objective: to teach students the elements of the subject, and it does that very well.

[James D Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

You don't have to remember it all or even most of it, but if you never understood it, you don't understand science.