Elements of Classical ThermodynamicsFor Advanced Students of Physics [Paperback]

The laws of thermodynamics are amongst the most assured and wide-ranging of all scientific laws. They do not pretend to explain any observation in molecular terms but, by showing the necessary relationships between different physical properties, they reduce otherwise disconnected results to compact order, and predict new effects. This classic title, first published in 1957, is a systematic exposition of principles, with examples of applications, especially to changes of places and the conditions for stability. In all this entropy is a key concept.Preface; 1. Introduction; 2. The zeroth and first laws of thermodynamics; 3. Reversible changes; 4. The second law of thermodynamics; 5. A miscellany of useful ideas; 6. Applications of thermodynamics to simple systems; 7. The thermodynamic inequalities; 8. Phase equilibrium; 9. Higher-order transitions; Exercises; Index.'There can be no hesitation in recommending this book to all undergraduates and postgraduates interested in thermodynamics, and many users of more advanced thermodynamics might well find pleasure in a study of this well-written account.' Nature'This is a superb little book & It has something of the flavour of an engrossing novel, or detective story, in which the author explores, with the aid of thermodynamic techniques, some of the mysteries of the more exciting parts of physics; in particular those, such as superconductivity, related to phase changes. Even when dealing with old and familiar topics it frequently imports a fresh and invigorating approach.' Science Progress'This little book is intended for advanced students of physics; but, with the possible exception of the final chapter, it could be read with profit by any student of engineering who seeks a fairly rigorous basis for his applied thermodynamics. It has the enormous advantage that the author makes a real effort to pinpoint some of the difficulties of his subject and to clarify them.' Journal of the Royal Aeronautical Society'Dr Pippard's book,l³