Statistical mechanics of nonequilibrium processes. Vol. 1: Basic concepts, kinetic theory. (English) Zbl 0890.00008

Zubarev, D.; Morozov, V.; Röpke, Gerd

Berlin: Akademie Verlag. 375 p. (1996).

This is part one of a two-volume textbook on the statistical theory of non-equilibrium processes. This modern presentation is based on an ensemble approach and aims at a unified treatment of Gibbs ensembles (both classical and quantum) and the non-equilibrium generalizations. Consequently, statistical operators and entropy play important roles in chapters 1 and 2 which develop the basic theory for many-particle systems.
Chapters 3 and 4 then deal extensively with kinetic theory, both classical and quantum. Topics discussed in detail include Boltzmann’s equation, non-ideal gases, plasmas, collision and scattering processes in plasmas and imperfect crystals and processes in strong external fields. All chapters are supplied with exercises and problems.
Given the importance of non-equilibrium processes in all branches of physics, a systematic treatment is highly desirable. In this respect, the present book is a big step forward in comparison to other books the reviewer has seen. Also, one can find many interesting topics here that would deserve a more rigorous, mathematical treatment, but none of which would be easy!
For a review of Part 2 see Zbl 0890.00009 below.

Reviewer: M.Baake (Tübingen)

MSC:

00A79	Physics (Use more specific entries from Sections 70-XX through 86-XX when possible)
82-01	Introductory exposition (textbooks, tutorial papers, etc.) pertaining to statistical mechanics
82C05	Classical dynamic and nonequilibrium statistical mechanics (general)
82C10	Quantum dynamics and nonequilibrium statistical mechanics (general)
82D05	Statistical mechanical studies of gases
82D10	Statistical mechanical studies of plasmas
82D15	Statistical mechanical studies of liquids
82D20	Statistical mechanical studies of solids

Keywords:

statistical physics; non-equilibrium processes; kinetic theory