Statistical Mechanics of Phase Transitions and Kinetics

Edward Timoshenko

May 2021 · Concise Lecture Notes in Physical Chemistry Book 4 · Edward Timoshenko

About this ebook

This course is devoted to advances of Statistical Mechanics beyond the ideal equilibrium systems. We proceed from the systematic calculation of corrections to the ideal gas law and the van der Waals theory.  Next, two-phase coexistence is studied and the Maxwell rule is obtained. The Flory-Huggins theory is derived for polymer solutions. We discuss the generic aspects of phase transitions, phase diagrams, metastable states and applications to chemical reactions. 

For molecular solutions we derive the Dalton’s, Raoult’s and Henry’s laws, as well as the Van’t-Hoff’s law. Concepts of the non-equilibrium Statistical Mechanics and the Kinetics of phase transitions are overviewed. 

Ratings and reviews

After a brief overview of the equilibrium statistical mechanics corrections to the ideal gas law are derived. Chemical equilibrium in solutions is considered. Derivation of the Dalton, Raoult, Henry and Van't-Hoff laws are performed. Simple Flory-Huggins theory of polymer solutions is discussed. Highly recommended for anyone studying Condensed Matter Physics and Physical Chemistry.

Excellent undergraduate course in Physical Chemistry

About the author

2011- Researcher, TEdQz Research after an early retirement from UCD  

2005 - 2011 Senior Lecturer in Physical Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, UCD

1997 College Lecturer at the Department of Chemistry, UCD

1995-97 Temporary Lecturer at UCD

1994-1995 Postdoctoral fellow at University College Dublin (UCD), Ireland

1992 M.Sc. in Physics , and 1995 Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics, both from M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Russia