Nonequilibrium statistical physics : a modern perspective /
Roberto Livi, Paolo Politi.
- Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2017.
- 1 online resource (xvii, 420 pages) : digital, PDF file(s).
Title from publisher's bibliographic system (viewed on 24 Oct 2017).
Brownian motion, Langevin and Fokker-Planck equations -- Linear response theory and transport phenomena -- From equilibrium to out of equilibrium phase transitions -- Out of equilibrium critical phenomena -- Stochastic dynamics of surfaces and interfaces -- Phase-ordering kinetics -- Highlights on pattern formation.
Statistical mechanics has been proven to be successful at describing physical systems at thermodynamic equilibrium. Since most natural phenomena occur in nonequilibrium conditions, the present challenge is to find suitable physical approaches for such conditions: this book provides a pedagogical pathway that explores various perspectives. The use of clear language, and explanatory figures and diagrams to describe models, simulations and experimental findings makes the book a valuable resource for undergraduate and graduate students, and also for lecturers organizing teaching at varying levels of experience in the field. Written in three parts, it covers basic and traditional concepts of nonequilibrium physics, modern aspects concerning nonequilibrium phase transitions, and application-orientated topics from a modern perspective. A broad range of topics is covered, including Langevin equations, Levy processes, directed percolation, kinetic roughening and pattern formation.