The Second Law: An Introduction to Classical and Statistical Thermodynamics

This highly original, thoroughly nuanced exploration of the applications of the Second Law of Thermodynamics extends across a wide variety of fields. Hundreds of well-chosen problems with complete solutions illustrate related topics in quantum mechanics, the Bohr atom, dimensional analysis, electrochemistry, indicator theory, and lattice defects. The text stresses underlying theories and models, elaborating on them from several points of view. Sophisticated generalizations are approached from the simplest, most transparent particular cases.
Intended as a primary or supplemental text for general and physical chemistry courses, this volume will also be of interest to undergraduates and graduate students of physics, biology, the earth sciences, engineering, medicine, operations research, and other fields. The treatment requires no prior knowledge of calculus and shuns a rote use of standard equations. Helpful appendixes supplement the text.