Beyond Equilibrium Thermodynamics Hardcover - 2005 - 1st Edition

First line

The goal of this book is to present and illustrate a unified approach to beyond-equilibrium systems.

From the rear cover

A comprehensive introduction to the emerging field of nonequilibrium thermodynamics

Nonequilibrium thermodynamics has emerged as a promising new field of study dealing with irreversible processes in matter, and is fundamental to understanding these systems on a wide range of length scales, including the micro- or nanoscopic level. Many of the most cutting-edge technological applications within this field require a fully nonlinear framework far from equilibrium. To create a unified framework that accommodates such needs, author Hans Christian ?tinger presents a new paradigm--beyond equilibrium thermodynamics.

In addition to being based on the latest developments, Beyond Equilibrium Thermodynamics is itself a significant development in the field. This groundbreaking text presents the first comprehensive approach to thermodynamics and statistical methods far from equilibrium. It clearly explains physical concepts, describes mathematics, and presents problems and solutions. In defining the new paradigm of beyond equilibrium thermodynamics, this book has the potential for opening a new field in the study of irreversible processes.

The text features:

• A presentation based on a unified framework
• A comprehensive list of applications of nonequilibrium thermodynamics
• An introduction to simulation techniques--a key to future applications
• Systematic classification of beyond equilibrium simulation techniques
• Guidance in anticipating the logical structure of results before actually deriving them
• Inclusion of a covariant version of the thermodynamic framework for relativistic applications
• More than 200 exercises with detailed solutions
• Careful referencing, including section or page numbers

Suitable for use as a graduate-level teaching tool or a reference for working scientists, Beyond Equilibrium Thermodynamics provides a concrete understanding of what had previously been a largely abstract field.