Principles of Condensed Matter Physics (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780521794503)

Now in paperback, this book provides an overview of the physics of condensed matter systems. Assuming a familiarity with the basics of quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics, the book establishes a general framework for describing condensed phases of matter based on symmetries and conservation laws. After surveying the structure and properties of materials with different symmetries, it explores the role of spatial dimensionality and microscopic interactions in determining the nature of phase transitions. Particular attention is given to critical phenomena and renormalization group methods. The properties of liquids, liquid crystals, quasicrystals, crystalline solids, magnetically ordered systems and amorphous solids are investigated in terms of their symmetry, generalized rigidity, hydrodynamics and topological defect structure. In addition to serving as a course text, this book is an essential reference for students and researchers in physics, applied physics, chemistry, materials science and engineering, who are interested in modern condensed matter physics.

Author: P. M. Chaikin, T. C. Lubensky
ISBN-10: 0521794501
ISBN-13: 9780521794503
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Language: English
Published: 09/28/2000
Pages: 720
Format: Paperback
Weight: 2.85lbs
Size: 9.60h x 6.70w x 1.60d