This textbook introduces physics and engineering students to the application of statistical thermodynamics to the study of macrocosmic states of uniform molecules. Although the authors presume knowledge of quantum mechanics, the first section contains some basic principles as a review. The second section covers the thermodynamics of systems followed by ideal and nonideal gasses. The final section is devoted to quantum statistical physics. Each theorem is described carefully, step by step, so that the student understands the process. When new concepts are introduced, a short review of those leading up to them is given. Students who faithfully follow the course are rewarded by a final chapter explaining how to find the number of photons in existence and the equilibrium state of the early universe. Annotation ⓒ2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
