Classical Mechanics and Statistical Mechanics

By Satyendra Kumar Gautam, Edited by Vennie Edwards

Classical Mechanics and Statistical Mechanics are two fundamental pillars of theoretical physics that describe physical systems at different scales and under varying conditions. Classical Mechanics focuses on the motion of bodies under the influence of forces and is governed by Newton's laws, Lagrangian mechanics, and Hamiltonian mechanics. It provides a deterministic framework for predicting the behavior of macroscopic objects, from the motion of planets to mechanical systems in engineering. The use of generalized coordinates and energy-based formalisms in Lagrangian and Hamiltonian approaches offers elegant solutions to complex dynamical problems, especially when dealing with constraints or conservative systems. On the other hand, Statistical Mechanics extends classical principles to systems with a large number of particles, where exact behavior cannot be tracked individually. Instead, it uses probability and ensemble theory to derive macroscopic properties from microscopic interactions. It forms the theoretical foundation of thermodynamics, explaining concepts like temperature, entropy, and heat from a molecular perspective. Maxwell-Boltzmann, Fermi-Dirac, and Bose-Einstein statistics describe different kinds of particle behavior based on quantum characteristics. Statistical mechanics bridges the microscopic world of atoms with the observable behavior of gases, solids, and liquids, making it essential for understanding phenomena in physics, chemistry, and materials science. Classical Mechanics and Statistical Mechanics provides a comprehensive exploration of motion and thermodynamic behavior, linking deterministic laws with probabilistic analysis in physical systems. Contents: 1. Introduction, 2. Rigid Body Dynamics, 3. Principles of Mechanics, 4. Mass Moment of Inertia, 5. Statistical Mechanics, 6. Symmetry in Quantum Mechanics, 7. Power Distribution in Statistical Mechanics, 8. Entropy in Quantum Mechanics, 9. Boltzmann’s Work in Statistical Physics.

Satyendra Kumar Gautam is a distinguished professor and esteemed scholar, widely recognized for his extensive work in Experimental Nuclear Physics. Eminent for his research on the Dielectric Behaviour of Organic Liquids and Mixtures, he earned his M.Phil from Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Agra in 2002. Currently, he is pursuing his Ph.D. at the same university, focusing on Fusion versus Fission Processes in Heavy Ion Induced Reactions at Several Excitation Energies, a cutting-edge exploration of nuclear reaction mechanisms. An alumnus of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Professor Gautam holds dual postgraduate degrees in Physics and Education, underscoring both his scientific depth and pedagogical expertise. His academic career began with five years as a Lecturer at the higher secondary level in Aligarh, where he laid a strong foundation in teaching. Presently, he serves as a Senior Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics at Shri Varshney College, Aligarh, where he continues to blend teaching with active research. His scholarly engagement is reflected in over many research papers published in reputed journals and more than several papers presented at national and international seminars, conferences, and symposiums particularly in the domains of nuclear physics and comparative physics studies. In addition to his research contributions, Professor Gautam is also an accomplished author, with several textbooks to his credit, which have enriched academic resources for students and scholars alike. With over 20 years of teaching experience in higher education, he remains deeply committed to advancing scientific knowledge and inspiring the next generation of physicists through both his teaching and his ongoing research.

ISBN978-1-83693-350-2
Copyright Year2027
Price$ 160
LanguageEnglish
FormatPDF
CategoryPHYSICS