Lectures on Theoretical Physics

Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics deals with the method of thermodynamic potentials, the four Gibbsian potentials, and Boltzmann's statistics. The book reviews the general considerations of thermodynamics, such as the first and second laws of thermodynamics, the van der Waals equation, and Nernst's third law of thermodynamics. The text also discusses the application of thermodynamics to special systems, the theory of phase equilibria, the electromotive force of galvanic cells, and the thermodynamics of near-equilibrium processes. The book explains the equation of state of a perfect gas, the Maxwellian velocity distribution, and the statistical significance of the constants in van der Waal's equation. The text notes that the states of equilibrium can be treated in a simple manner compared to complex methods used in problems connected with irreversible processes. The book explains that the atoms in a molecule are capable of performing small vibrations about their position of equilibrium as they possess both kinetic and potential energy. The text also discusses the quantization of vibrational energy and rotational energy. The book can be helpful for students of physics, thermodynamics, and related subjects. It can also be used by instructors in advanced physics.