Introduction

Striving to explore the subject in as simple a manner as possible, this book helps readers understand the elusive concept of entropy.

Innovative Aspects

Innovative aspects of the book include the construction of statistical entropy from desired properties, the derivation of the entropy of classical systems from purely classical assumptions, and a statistical thermodynamics approach to the ideal Fermi and ideal Bose gases.

Content and Features

Derivations are worked through step-by-step and important applications are highlighted in over 20 worked examples. Around 50 end-of-chapter exercises test readers' understanding. The book also features a glossary giving definitions for all essential terms, a timeline showing important developments, and a list of books for further study.

Target Audience

It is an ideal supplement to undergraduate courses in physics, engineering, chemistry, and mathematics.