Textbook in PDF format
The role of thermodynamics in modern physics is not just to provide an approximate treatment of large thermal systems, but, more importantly, to provide an organising set of ideas. This title presents thermodynamics as a self-contained and elegant set of ideas and methods. It unfolds thermodynamics for undergraduate students of physics, chemistry or engineering, beginning at first year level. The book introduces the necessary mathematical methods, assuming almost no prior knowledge, and explains concepts such as entropy and free energy at length, with many examples.
How to use this book
Introducing thermodynamics
A survey of thermodynamic ideas
Some general knowledge
Mathematical tools
Zeroth law, equation of state
First law, internal energy
The second law and entropy
Understanding entropy
Heat flow and thermal relaxation
Practical heat engines
Introducing chemical potential
Functions and methods
Elastic bands, rods, bubbles, magnets
Modelling real gases
Expansion and flow processes
Stability and free energy
Reinventing the subject
Thermal radiation
Radiative heat transfer
Chemical reactions
Phase change
The third law
Phase change, nucleation, and solutes
Continuous phase transitions
Self-gravitation and negative heat capacity
Fluctuations
Thermoelectricity and entropy flow
Appendixes
Electric and magnetic work
More on natural variables and free energy
Some mathematical results