Elements of Statistical Mechanics
With an Introduction to Quantum Field Theory and Numerical Simulation

A concise 2006 textbook introducing key concepts, tools and applications of statistical mechanics.

Ivo Sachs (Author), Siddhartha Sen (Author), James Sexton (Author)

9780521841986, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 11 May 2006

348 pages
24.4 x 17 x 2.1 cm, 0.75 kg

"It is a well-written book, providing general information and stimulating discussions on different and relevant topics in many-particle physical systems. In this sense it constitutes a short and introductory guide to many subjects which may be of interest for undergraduate and postgraduate students in physics, a purpose clearly established in the preface."
Marco Corgini, Mathematical Reviews

This 2006 textbook provides a concise introduction to the key concepts and tools of statistical mechanics. It also covers advanced topics such as non-relativistic quantum field theory and numerical methods. After introducing classical analytical techniques, such as cluster expansion and Landau theory, the authors present important numerical methods with applications to magnetic systems, Lennard-Jones fluids and biophysics. Quantum statistical mechanics is discussed in detail and applied to Bose-Einstein condensation and topics in astrophysics and cosmology. In order to describe emergent phenomena in interacting quantum systems, canonical non-relativistic quantum field theory is introduced and then reformulated in terms of Feynman integrals. Combining the authors' many years' experience of teaching courses in this area, this textbook is ideal for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in physics, chemistry and mathematics.

Preface
List of fundamental physical constraints
1. The problem
2. Statistical mechanics
3. Variations of a theme
4. Handling interactions
5. Monte Carlo integration
6. Numerical molecular dynamics
7. Quantum statistical mechanics
8. Astrophysics
9. Non-relativistic quantum field theory
10. Superfluidity
11. Path integrals
12. A second look
13. Phase transitions and the renormalization group
Index.

Subject Areas: Physical chemistry [PNR], Statistical physics [PHS], Condensed matter physics [liquid state & solid state physics PHFC]