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Introduction to Modern Thermodynamics

Dilip Kondepudi
May 2008, ©2008
Introduction to Modern Thermodynamics (EHEP000874) cover image

  • Overview
Thermodynamics is a core part of most science and engineering degree programs. However, the majority of texts that are currently available to students take a “classical” approach, teaching  thermodynamics very much as it was presented in the 19th century. This is done generally for historical rather than pedagogical reasons.   “Modern” thermodynamics, in contrast, relates entropy, the central concept of thermodynamics, to irreversible processes.

An Introduction to Modern Thermodynamics provides the first modern approach to thermodynamics written specifically for a first undergraduate course. It covers the fundamental formalism with some attention given to its history; describes basic applications of the formalism and continues with a number of additional applications that instructors can use according to their particular degree program – these chapters cover thermal radiation, biological systems, nano systems, classical stability theory, and principles of statistical thermodynamics. A wide range of examples appear throughout the book from biological, engineering and atmospheric systems.

Table of Contents
Preface.

Part I: The Formalism of Modern Thermodynamics.

1. Basic Concepts and the Laws of Gases.

2. The First Law of Thermodynamics.

3. The Second Law of Thermodynamics and the Arrow of Time.

4. Entropy in the Realm of Chemical Reactions.

5. Extremum Principles and General Thermodynamic Relations.

Part II: Applications: Equilibrium and Nonequilibrium Systems.

6. Basic Thermodynamics of Gases, Liquids and Solids.

7. Thermodynamics of Phase Change.

8. Thermodynamics of Solutions.

9. Thermodynamics of Chemical Transformations.

10. Fields and Internal Degrees of Freedom.

11. Introduction to Nonequilibrium Systems.

Part III: Additional Topics.

12. Thermodynamics of Radiation.

13. Biological Systems.

14. Thermodynamics of Small Systems.

15. Classical Stability Theory.

16. Critical Phenomena and Configurationally Heat Capacity.

17. Elements of Statistical Thermodynamics.

List of Variables.

Standard Thermodynamic Properties.

Physical Constants and Data.

Name Index.

Subject Index.

Author Information
Dilip Kondepudi is Thurman D. Kitchin Professor of Chemistry, Wake Forest University where his main research interest is chiral asymmetry in nature. He has, in addition, many years teaching experience to both under-and postgraduate students. He is the author, with the late Ilya Prigogine, of the highly successful book Modern Thermodynamics; From Heat Engines to Dissipative Structures.
Hallmark Features
  • First modern approach to the subject written at this level
  • Suitable for a variety of degree programs with an extensive range of applications and examples drawn from biological, engineering, atmospheric, and nano systems
  • Numerous examples and exercises in each chapter, along with a bibliography
  • Dedicated Web site for students and instructors - provides students with information and links to data sources and other thermodynamics-related sites.  Instructors are able to download complete solutions to exercises. http://users.wfu.edu/dilip/IntroMod.html
Reviews
"The book is excellent at capturing and keeping the interest of the reader. The historical perspective and the biographical sketches of the major developers of thermodynamics are exceptionally good." (Angewandte Chemie International Edition, January 5, 2009)

Available Versions

Introduction to Modern Thermodynamics
by Dilip Kondepudi
ISBN 978-0-470-01599-5
May 2008, ©2008
Paperback, 516 pages
US $77.95 Add to Cart
Request an Evaluation Copy
Introduction to Modern Thermodynamics
by Dilip Kondepudi
ISBN 978-0-470-01598-8
May 2008, ©2008
Hardcover, 516 pages
US $179.95 Add to Cart This is a Print-on-Demand title. It will be printed specifically to fill your order. Please allow an additional 5-6 days delivery time. The book is not returnable.