Essential Statistical Physics

‘At last a textbook that contains all the required elements for a modern advanced undergraduate course on statistical physics: foundations, quantum statistical mechanics, phase transitions and dynamics. I particularly like the derivation of ensembles through maximization of Gibbs entropy and the Langevin description of Brownian motion. Plenty of instructive problems within ten digestible chapters make this a text I can recommend to my students.’ Martin Evans, University of Edinburgh

‘Statistical mechanics is a vast and fascinating topic, sometimes intimidating beginning students. Kennett succeeds in delivering an agile, fresh and modern exposition of the essential ideas and methods, in addition to a well-thought selection of examples and applications borrowed from all branches of physics. Students and teachers alike will enjoy the carefully organized table of contents for self-study and lecture preparation.’ Roberto Raimondi, Roma Tre University

‘This book incorporates, into a single course, ideas and theoretical techniques in statistical physics and quantum mechanics that are connected by the physical phenomena they are meant to describe. Yet they are rarely all found in the same text. Professor Kennett offers students of theoretical physics a rare opportunity to acquire a mature understanding of their impact and meaning.’ Herbert Fertig, Indiana University, Bloomington

‘Excellent presentation of classical and quantum statistical physics; the colloquial style and the clear and easy-to-follow derivations make the textbook suitable for an introductory course in statistical mechanics.’ Davide Rabolini, Universita' Telematica Giustino Fortunato