The Statistical Mechanics of Irreversible Phenomena
This book provides a comprehensive and self-contained overview of recent progress in nonequilibrium statistical mechanics, in particular, the discovery of fluctuation relations and other time-reversal symmetry relations. The significance of these advances is that nonequilibrium statistical physics is no longer restricted to the linear regimes close to equilibrium, but extends to fully nonlinear regimes. These important new results have inspired the development of a unifying framework for describing both the microscopic dynamics of collections of particles, and the macroscopic hydrodynamics and thermodynamics of matter itself. The book discusses the significance of this theoretical framework in relation to a broad range of nonequilibrium processes, from the nanoscale to the macroscale, and is essential reading for researchers and graduate students in statistical physics, theoretical chemistry and biological physics.
Fascinating Problems for Young Physicists
Problem-solving is the cornerstone of all walks of scientific research. Fascinating Problems for Young Physicists attempts to clear the boundaries of seemingly abstract physical laws and their tangible effects through a step-by-step approach to physics in the world around us. It consists of 42 problems with detailed solutions, each describing a specific, interesting physical phenomenon. Each problem is further divided into questions designed to guide the reader through, encouraging engagement with and learning the physics behind the phenomenon. By solving the problems, the reader will be able to discover, for example, what the relation is between the mass of an animal and its expected lifetime, or what the efficiency limit is of wind turbines. Intended for first-year undergraduate students and interested high school students, this book develops inquiry-based scientific practice and enables students to acquire the necessary skills for applying the laws of physics to realistic situations.
Liquid Crystals and Their Computer Simulations
Standing as the first unified textbook on the subject, Liquid Crystals and Their Computer Simulations provides a comprehensive and up-to-date treatment of liquid crystals and of their Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics computer simulations. Liquid crystals have a complex physical nature, and, therefore, computer simulations are a key element of research in this field. This modern text develops a uniform formalism for addressing various spectroscopic techniques and other experimental methods for studying phase transitions of liquid crystals, and emphasises the links between their molecular organisation and observable static and dynamic properties. Aided by the inclusion of a set of Appendices containing detailed mathematical background and derivations, this book is accessible to a broad and multidisciplinary audience. Primarily intended for graduate students and academic researchers, it is also an invaluable reference for industrial researchers working on the development of liquid crystal display technology.
Principles of Solar Cells: Connecting Perspectives on Device, System, Reliability, and Data Science
How does a solar cell work? How efficient can it be? Why do intricate patterns of metal lines decorate the surface of a solar module? How are the modules arranged in a solar farm? How can sunlight be stored during the day so that it can be used at night? And, how can a lifetime of more than 25 years be ensured in solar modules, despite the exposure to extreme patterns of weather? How do emerging machine-learning techniques assess the health of a solar farm? This practical book will answer all these questions and much more.Written in a conversational style and with over one-hundred homework problems, this book offers an end-to-end perspective, connecting the multi-disciplinary and multi-scale physical phenomena of electron-photon interaction at the molecular level to the design of kilometers-long solar farms. A new conceptual framework explains each concept in a simple, crystal-clear form. The novel use of thermodynamics not only determines the ultimate conversion efficiencies of the various solar cells proposed over the years, but also identifies the measurement artifacts and establishes practical limits by correlating the degradation modes. Extensive coverage of conceptual techniques already developed in other fields further inspire innovative designs of solar farms.This book will not only help you to make a solar cell, but it will help you make a solar cell better, to trace and reclaim the photons that would have been lost otherwise. Collaborations across multiple disciplines make photovoltaics real and given the concern about reducing the overall cost of solar energy, this interdisciplinary book is essential reading for anyone interested in photovoltaic technology.
Kepler’s Dream
Kepler's Dream is a visionary work that blends scientific exploration with imaginative storytelling, marking one of the earliest examples of speculative science fiction. Written by Johannes Kepler in the early 17th century, this allegorical text delves into lunar travel through the story of Duracotus, a young man transported to the moon. Beyond its narrative charm, the work reveals Kepler's pioneering insights into celestial mechanics and planetary motion, expanding on his laws of orbital dynamics. With detailed notes appended later, Kepler's Dream not only presents a fantastical voyage but also serves as a rigorous exploration of the scientific principles underpinning space travel. Set against the backdrop of religious and scientific upheaval, Kepler's Dream reflects the challenges of advancing revolutionary ideas in a conservative era. Kepler's innovative approach to astronomy and his veiled critiques of dogmatic beliefs brought him both acclaim and controversy, including a witchcraft trial for his mother. This work bridges medieval cosmology and the scientific revolution, offering a unique blend of rigorous inquiry and visionary speculation. Today, it stands as a testament to Kepler's brilliance and humanity's enduring curiosity about the cosmos. This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press's mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1965.
Kepler’s Dream
Kepler's Dream is a visionary work that blends scientific exploration with imaginative storytelling, marking one of the earliest examples of speculative science fiction. Written by Johannes Kepler in the early 17th century, this allegorical text delves into lunar travel through the story of Duracotus, a young man transported to the moon. Beyond its narrative charm, the work reveals Kepler's pioneering insights into celestial mechanics and planetary motion, expanding on his laws of orbital dynamics. With detailed notes appended later, Kepler's Dream not only presents a fantastical voyage but also serves as a rigorous exploration of the scientific principles underpinning space travel. Set against the backdrop of religious and scientific upheaval, Kepler's Dream reflects the challenges of advancing revolutionary ideas in a conservative era. Kepler's innovative approach to astronomy and his veiled critiques of dogmatic beliefs brought him both acclaim and controversy, including a witchcraft trial for his mother. This work bridges medieval cosmology and the scientific revolution, offering a unique blend of rigorous inquiry and visionary speculation. Today, it stands as a testament to Kepler's brilliance and humanity's enduring curiosity about the cosmos. This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press's mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1965.
Lectures on Gas Theory
Lectures on Gas Theory by Ludwig Boltzmann stands as a seminal work in theoretical physics, offering both historical insight and enduring scientific value. This comprehensive treatise encapsulates Boltzmann's pioneering efforts in the kinetic theory of gases, where he reconciled Newtonian mechanics with the statistical nature of irreversible processes. The book distills Boltzmann's vast body of work, presenting a detailed exposition of the statistical foundations of thermodynamics, his groundbreaking H-theorem, transport theory, and the molecular basis of thermal equilibrium. Beyond its technical achievements, the text includes Boltzmann's philosophical reflections on entropy, irreversibility, and the role of statistical methods in physics, making it a critical reference for researchers and a bridge to modern statistical mechanics. Although some elements of Boltzmann's classical approach have been superseded by quantum mechanics, the foundational principles and mathematical frameworks he established remain highly relevant, particularly in fields like plasma physics, neutron transport, and rarefied gas dynamics. The book also serves as a historical document, chronicling the intellectual battles of Boltzmann's time, including debates with proponents of the rival energetics movement. Boltzmann's work embodies the triumph of atomistic theories, offering a model of rigorous scientific inquiry. Lectures on Gas Theory is a testament to his genius, providing not only a technical masterpiece but also profound insights into the philosophical underpinnings of physical science. This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press's mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1964.
Semiconductor Nanophotonics
Nanometre sized structures made of semiconductors, insulators, and metals and grown by modern growth technologies or by chemical synthesis exhibit novel electronic and optical phenomena due to the confinement of electrons and photons. Strong interactions between electrons and photons in narrow regions lead to inhibited spontaneous emission, thresholdless laser operation, and Bose-Einstein condensation of exciton-polaritons in microcavities. Generation of sub-wavelength radiation by surface plasmon-polaritons at metal-semiconductor interfaces, creation of photonic band gaps in dielectrics, and realization of nanometer sized semiconductor or insulator structures with negative permittivity and permeability, known as metamaterials, are further examples in the area of Nanophotonics. The studies help develop spasers and plasmonic nanolasers of subwavelength dimensions, paving the way to use plasmonics in future data centres and high-speed computers working at THz bandwidth with less than a few fJ/bit dissipation. The present book is aimed at graduate students and researchers providing them with an introductory textbook on Semiconductor Nanophotonics. It gives an introduction to electron-photon interactions in Quantum Wells, Wires, and Dots and then discusses the processes in microcavities, photonic band gap materials, metamaterials, and related applications. The phenomena and device applications under strong light-matter interactions are discussed, mostly by using classical and semi-classical theories. Numerous examples and problems accompany each chapter.
Lectures on Gas Theory
Lectures on Gas Theory by Ludwig Boltzmann stands as a seminal work in theoretical physics, offering both historical insight and enduring scientific value. This comprehensive treatise encapsulates Boltzmann's pioneering efforts in the kinetic theory of gases, where he reconciled Newtonian mechanics with the statistical nature of irreversible processes. The book distills Boltzmann's vast body of work, presenting a detailed exposition of the statistical foundations of thermodynamics, his groundbreaking H-theorem, transport theory, and the molecular basis of thermal equilibrium. Beyond its technical achievements, the text includes Boltzmann's philosophical reflections on entropy, irreversibility, and the role of statistical methods in physics, making it a critical reference for researchers and a bridge to modern statistical mechanics. Although some elements of Boltzmann's classical approach have been superseded by quantum mechanics, the foundational principles and mathematical frameworks he established remain highly relevant, particularly in fields like plasma physics, neutron transport, and rarefied gas dynamics. The book also serves as a historical document, chronicling the intellectual battles of Boltzmann's time, including debates with proponents of the rival energetics movement. Boltzmann's work embodies the triumph of atomistic theories, offering a model of rigorous scientific inquiry. Lectures on Gas Theory is a testament to his genius, providing not only a technical masterpiece but also profound insights into the philosophical underpinnings of physical science. This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press's mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1964.
Relativity
RELATIVITY: THE SPECIAL AND THE GENERAL THEORY aims to give, as Einstein himself says, an exact understanding of the concept of Relativity to the readers who are interested in the theory but are not conversant with the mathematical equipment of theoretical physics. When he wrote the book in 1916, Einstein was not as well-known as he is now. This principal work not only made him famous but made him the greatest physicist of all time. The new theory of gravity and different perspective on the cosmos establish this work as a pioneer in the world of physics.
Physics in Crisis: From Multiverses to Fake News
Today's physics has led to incredible advances in the technology we use in daily life -- from cell phones and GPS systems to PET scans and more. Current theories in physics have been amazingly effective in practical terms. Yet all is far from well: the two foundational concepts in physics -- Quantum Theory and General Relativity -- are incompatible with each other, and observations of the universe show that our theories are incomplete -- at best.While physicists have tried to paper over this impasse by inventing dark matter and dark energy, they remain unobserved mysteries. Adding fuel to the fire of current crises, artificial intelligence threatens to replace our most cherished theories and procedures with arcane algorithms. Worse yet perhaps, the public understands physics poorly, either taking it for granted or fearing and rejecting it completely.Physicists dream of a new universal theory that will completely change how we see our world, much as Einstein did with relativity and Newton with gravity. Likewise, society loves the romantic notion of a single genius heroically creating a massive paradigm shift. Still, is this scenario likely today? Perhaps the next steps in physics will be incremental rather than gigantic.In Physics in Crisis, Bruno Mansouli矇 uses simple language, insightful examples, and his personal experience as a working physicist to address these fundamental questions and reflect on how today's crises in physics might be solved.
Computational Biomechanics for Medicine
Computational Biomechanics for Medicine: Solid and fluid mechanics for the benefit of patients contributions and papers from the MICCAI Computational Biomechanics for Medicine Workshop help in conjunction with Medical Image Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention conference (MICCAI 2020) in Lima, Peru. The content is dedicated to research in the field of methods and applications of computational biomechanics to medical image analysis, image-guided surgery, surgical simulation, surgical intervention planning, disease prognosis and diagnostics, analysis of injury mechanisms, implant and prostheses design, as well as artificial organ design and medical robotics. This book appeals to researchers, students and professionals in the field.
Trails in Kinetic Theory
J. A. Carrillo et al., Recent Development In Kinetic Theory Of Granular Materials: Analysis And Numerical Methods.- R. Borsche and A. Klar, Asymptotic methods for kinetic and hyperbolic evolution equations on networks.- Marina A. Ferreira, Coagulation equations for aerosol dynamics.- F. Bourdin and B. Maury, Multibody and macroscopic impact laws: a Convex Analysis Standpoint.- L. Pareschi, An introduction to uncertainty quantification for kinetic equations and related problems.- M. Pulvirenti and S. Simonella, A brief introduction to the scaling limits and effective equations in kinetic theory.- G. Toscani, Statistical description of human addiction phenomena.- A. Tosin and M. Zanella, Boltzmann-type description with cutoff of Follow-the-Leader traffic models.
Das Perpetuum Mobile
"Was man heute nicht gefunden, kann man doch wohl morgen noch finden. Au?er dem: jedes M羹hlrad in eisfreiem Flu?, der niemals austrocknet, ist einPerpetuum Mobile. Bei diesem arrangirt allerdings die Verdunstung des Wassers das Wiederhin-aufheben der Last. Aber dieses Wiederhin-aufheben wird von der Sonne perpetuirlich besorgt. Ich glaube, die Herren Physiker k繹nnen sich noch nicht bei ihren kosmi schen Betrachtungen mit ihrer Phantasie au?erhalb der Erdathmosph瓣re hinstellen und von dort aus die sehr merkw羹rdige perpetuirliche Anziehungarbeit der Erde beobachten. Diese Anziehungarbeit in per petuirliche Bewegung umzusetzen, mag ja nicht so ganz leicht sein: f羹r unm繹glich d羹rfen wirs aber nicht halten. Die Physik mag eine sehr schwierige Sache sein. Das berechtigt aber keinen, dummes Zeug auf dem Gebiete dieser herrlichen Wissenschaft zu behaup ten und zu glauben." Ein Perpetuum mobile ist ein hypothetisches Ger瓣t, das - einmal in Gang gesetzt - ohne weitere Energiezufuhr ewig in Bewegung bleibt und dabei - je nach zugrundegelegter Definition - m繹glicherweise auch noch Arbeit verrichtet. Perpetua mobilia werden nach dem thermodynamischen Hauptsatz kategorisiert, den sie verletzen w羹rden. Die Klassifikation gibt keinen Hinweis auf das beabsichtigte Funktionsprinzip des Perpetuum mobile. Paul Scheerbart (1863-1915), auch unter seinen Pseudonymen Kuno K羹fer und Bruno K羹fer bekannt, war ein deutscher Schriftsteller phantastischer Literatur und Zeichner.
Big Bang
The key proposal within the discussed theory is that the quantum particles of gravity (gravitons) move faster than the accepted speed of light photons. Gravity is asserted as the smallest of all particles (known, undiscovered and never to be discovered) within all quantum and cosmological theory. Gravity particles are constantly interacting with other fundamental particles in order to maintain balance and order within the multiverse. What this book will offer: The most effective techniques for creating new habits efficiently.A step-by-step process for successfully developing new behaviors that you will maintain over time.Assist you in realizing your full potential and using the power of habit to achieve much more in life.Assist you in overcoming negative behaviors. Permit you to avoid or overcome the difficulties inherent in creating new habits.History is a story. It grants us access to the laboratory of human experience. It helps us understand people, societies, and our connections to them. It contributes to empathy and moral understanding. History teaches us how the world works.This world history book is shorter than most and, therefore, it is even cruder and more incomplete than most. If you have the time to read a multi-volume history of the world, we recommend that you do.
Fluid Mechanics
bVery Short Introductionsb: Brilliant, Sharp, Inspiring /b Fluid mechanics is an important branch of physics concerned with the way in which fluids, such as liquids and gases, behave when in motion and at rest. A quintessential interdisciplinary field of science, it interacts with many other scientific disciplines, from chemistry and biology to mathematics and engineering. This Very Short Introduction presents the field of fluid mechanics by focusing on the underlying physical ideas and using everyday phenomena to demonstrate them, from dripping taps to swimming ducks. Eric Lauga shows how this set of fundamental physical concepts can be applied to a wide range of flow behaviours and highlights the role of fluid motion in both the natural and industrial worlds. This book also considers future applications of fluid mechanics in science. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.
Neil Armstrong
Aside from the interesting facts and images mr smith presents in his neil armstrong for kids book he also covers some interesting insights about neil armstrong's background, his humble beginnings & how he first got started with flying. Kids will also learn about his many accomplishments, his influences on mankind today and more interesting facts. The pictures within this book are accompanied by small bits of easy to understand text while making it an exciting read about the life of neil armstrong.Neil armstrong: the life and legacy of the first astronaut to walk on the moon profiles his life and chronicles the most memorable space mission in history. Along with pictures of important people, places, and events, you will learn about neil armstrong like never before. Reading a complete biography can often be intimidating for a young person, but weston gives you neil armstrong's life in 136 easy-to-understand segments.We are sure that the facts about neil armstrong in this book will fascinate you and inspire you to learn much more about the first man to ever walk on the moon.
James Nasmyth, Engineer
This book "" James Nasmyth, Engineer: An Autobiography "", has been considered important throughout the human history, and so that this work is never forgotten we have made efforts in its preservation by republishing this book in a modern format for present and future generations. This whole book has been reformatted, retyped and designed. These books are not made of scanned copies and hence the text is clear and readable.
Net-Zero/Positive Energy Buildings and Districts
Buildings account for more than one-third of the global final energy consumption and CO2 emissions. The building sector offers a significant potential in the transition towards the decarbonisation of societies. To achieve this goal, different concepts and implementations of Net-Zero/Positive Energy Buildings and Districts (NZPEBD) have emerged in the last years and are still in progress. This book is the collection of the articles published in the Special Issue "Net-Zero/Positive Energy Buildings and Districts" of the Buildings journal. This reprint includes 17 research articles covering different aspects of Net-Zero/Positive Energy Buildings and Districts planning, technologies, economics, building design and retrofitting, citizen engagement, and collection of energy data.
Latent Heat-Based Thermal Energy Storage Systems
In light of increasing human-induced global climate change, there is a greater need for clean energy resources and zero carbon projects. This new volume offers up-to-date coverage of the fundamentals as well as recent advancements in energy efficient thermal energy storage materials, their characterization, and technological applications. Thermal energy storage (TES) systems offer very high-energy savings for many of our day-to-day applications and could be a strong component for enhancing the usage of renewable/clean energy-based devices. Because of its beneficial environmental impact, this technology has received wide attention in the recent past, and dedicated research efforts have led to the development of novel materials, as well to innovative applications in very many fields, ranging from buildings to textile, healthcare to agriculture, space to automobiles. This book offers a valuable and informed systematic treatment of latent heat-based thermal energy storage systems, covering current energy research and important developmental work.
Proceedings of the National Workshop on Recent Advances in Condensed Matter and High Energy Physics
Nanofluids for Heat Exchangers
This book describes the importance of heat transfer in heat exchangers, and fluids properties play a vital role to increase heat transfer rate translating the size of the equipment and cuts in the capital and running cost in the long term. Nanofluids applications in heat exchangers will help to improve the thermophysical properties of the fluid and therefore heat transfer. And, this book explains the enhancing mechanisms of heat transfer by employing nanofluids in heat exchangers. A critical discussion will enable to estimate the pros and cons of such fluids in different types of heat exchangers. Prevailing working conditions for short- and long-term implementation of various types of nanofluids will be discussed and introduced to the readers. This book helps the researchers, scientist and academicians working in the domain to be able to get a comprehensive knowledge at one place regarding the preparation, properties, measurements, data reduction, characteristics and applications of nanofluids in heat exchangers.
Lithium Ion Glassy Electrolytes
This book presents recent developments and future scopes of glassy systems, such as their electrical and optical properties, use as electrodes, photonics devices, battery applications and others, which are of great interest for material scientists and professionals. Each chapter is designed to increase coherence, containing examples and question sets as exercises for in-depth understanding of the text. It provides a valuable resource for researchers, professionals and students in the area of material research especially on Li-doped glasses.
Symmetry Representations of Molecular Vibrations
This book presents a comprehensive theoretical basis of symmetry representations of molecular vibrations, matrix representation of symmetries, and the elements of group theory that are relevant to other symmetry elements/operations, crystallographic and molecular point groups. The book helps understand the reducible and irreducible representations of symmetry matrices and then derive the normal modes of vibration of different molecules by using suitable techniques independently. Targeted to graduate students and researchers, this book aims not only to derive the normal modes of vibration of any given molecule themselves but also compares and verifies them with the experimentally found modes by using IR and Raman-related techniques. For the first time in the crystallographic history, this book presents the group multiplication tables of all 32 point groups in both international and Schoenflies notations.
The Silicon Web
From computers to optical communication, this text explores core principles underlying those technologies that continue to revolutionize our lives. Designed for nonscientists, this book requires no higher math or prior physics. It details basic physics principles at the core of information technology; examines the quantum era, discussing digital
The 4ds of Energy Transition
The 4Ds of Energy Transition Enables readers to understand technology-driven approaches that address the challenges of today's energy scenario and the shift towards sustainable energy transition This book provides a comprehensive account of the characteristics of energy transition, covering the latest advancements, trends, and practices around the topic. It charts the path to global energy sustainability based on existing technology by focusing on the four dynamic approaches of decarbonization, decreasing use, decentralization, and digitalization, plus the important technical, economic, social and policy perspectives surrounding those approaches. Each technology is demonstrated with an introduction and a set of specific chapters. The work appropriately incorporates up-to-date data, case studies, and comparative assessments to further aid in reader comprehension. Sample topics discussed within the work by key thinkers and researchers in the broader fields of energy include: Renewable energy and sustainable energy future Decarbonization in energy sector Hydrogen and fuel cells Electric mobility and sustainable transportation Energy conservation and management Distributed and off-grid generation, energy storage, and batteries Digitalization in energy sector; smart meters, smart grids, blockchain This book is an ideal professional resource for engineers, academics, and policy makers working in areas related to the development of energy solutions.
Plastic Scintillators
Part 1: Materials.- Chapter 1. Introduction - Overview on Plastic and Inorganic Scintillators.- Chapter 2. Neutron/Gamma Pulse Shape Discrimination in Plastics Scintillators: From Development to Commercialization.- Chapter 3. The Detection of Slow Neutrons.- Chapter 4. Chemical Approach on Organometallic Loading in Plastic Scintillators and its Applications.- Chapter 5. Polysiloxane-based Scintillators.- Chapter 6. Composite Scintillators.- Chapter 7. Molecular Design Considerations for Different Classes of Organic Scintillators.- 8. Organic Glass Scintillators.- Part 2: Applications.- Chapter 9. Optical Improvements of Plastic Scintillators by Nanophotonics.- Chapter 10. Analogue and Digital Signal Processing for Real-Time Nuclear and Radiological Applications.- Chapter 11. Radioactive Noble Gas Detection and Measurement with Plastic Scintillators.- 12. Recent Advances and Clinical Applications of Plastic Scintillators in the Field of Radiation Therapy.- 13. Plastic Scintillators in Environmental Analysis.- Chapter 14. Use of Scintillators to Study the Earth from Ground to the Radiation Belts.- Chapter 15. Plastic Scintillator Detectors for Particle Physics.
Fascinating Problems for Young Physicists
Problem-solving is the cornerstone of all walks of scientific research. Fascinating Problems for Young Physicists attempts to clear the boundaries of seemingly abstract physical laws and their tangible effects through a step-by-step approach to physics in the world around us. It consists of 42 problems with detailed solutions, each describing a specific, interesting physical phenomenon. Each problem is further divided into questions designed to guide the reader through, encouraging engagement with and learning the physics behind the phenomenon. By solving the problems, the reader will be able to discover, for example, what the relation is between the mass of an animal and its expected lifetime, or what the efficiency limit is of wind turbines. Intended for first-year undergraduate students and interested high school students, this book develops inquiry-based scientific practice and enables students to acquire the necessary skills for applying the laws of physics to realistic situations.
Mathematical Methods and Physical Insights
Mathematics instruction is often more effective when presented in a physical context. Schramm uses this insight to help develop students' physical intuition as he guides them through the mathematical methods required to study upper-level physics. Based on the undergraduate Math Methods course he has taught for many years at Occidental College, the text encourages a symbiosis through which the physics illuminates the math, which in turn informs the physics. Appropriate for both classroom and self-study use, the text begins with a review of useful techniques to ensure students are comfortable with prerequisite material. It then moves on to cover vector fields, analytic functions, linear algebra, function spaces, and differential equations. Written in an informal and engaging style, it also includes short supplementary digressions ('By the Ways') as optional boxes showcasing directions in which the math or physics may be explored further. Extensive problems are included throughout, many taking advantage of Mathematica, to test and deepen comprehension.
Thermodynamics
Concise, detailed, and transparently structured, this upper-level undergraduate textbook is an excellent resource for a one-semester course on thermodynamics for students majoring in physics, chemistry, or materials science. Throughout the seven chapters and three-part appendix, students benefit from numerous practical examples and solved problems ranging in broad scope from cosmic to molecular evolution; cloud formation to rubber elasticity; and Carnot engines to Monte Carlo simulation of phase equilibria.Lauded in Physics Today as "a valuable resource for students and faculty", Hentschke's Thermodynamics presents in this long-anticipated second edition new and extended coverage of a range of topical material, such as thermodynamics of the universe and atmospheric thermodynamics, while also featuring a more application-oriented treatment of surfaces, interfaces, and polymers. Touching on subjects throughout soft-matter physics, superconductors, and complex fluids, this textbook delivers the foundation and breadth of scope necessary to prepare undergraduate students for further study in this timeless yet ever-changing field.
Beyond Li-Ion Batteries for Grid-Scale Energy Storage
In order to improve the resiliency of the grid and to enable integration of renewable energy sources into the grid, the utilization of battery systems to store energy for later demand is of the utmost importance. The implementation of grid-scale electrical energy storage systems can aid in peak shaving and load leveling, voltage and frequency regulation, as well as emergency power supply. Although the predominant battery chemistry currently used is Li-ion; due to cost, safety and sourcing concerns, incorporation of other battery technologies is of interest for expanding the breadth and depth of battery storage system installations. This Element discusses existing technologies beyond Li-ion battery storage chemistries that have seen grid-scale deployment, as well as several other promising battery technologies, and analyzes their chemistry mechanisms, battery construction and design, and corresponding advantages and disadvantages.
Energy Storage Applications in Transmission and Distribution Grids
Percolation in Spatial Networks
Percolation theory is a well studied process utilized by networks theory to understand the resilience of networks under random or targeted attacks. Despite their importance, spatial networks have been less studied under the percolation process compared to the extensively studied non-spatial networks. In this Element, the authors will discuss the developments and challenges in the study of percolation in spatial networks ranging from the classical nearest neighbors lattice structures, through more generalized spatial structures such as networks with a distribution of edge lengths or community structure, and up to spatial networks of networks.
Energy Storage Architecture
Energy storage systems (ESS) exist in a wide variety of sizes, shapes and technologies. An energy storage system's technology, i.e. the fundamental energy storage mechanism, naturally affects its important characteristics including cost, safety, performance, reliability, and longevity. However, while the underlying technology is important, a successful energy storage project relies on a thorough and thoughtful implementation of the technology to meet the project's goals. A successful implementation depends on how well the energy storage system is architected and assembled. The system's architecture can determine its performance and reliability, in concert with or even despite the technology it employs. It is possible for an energy storage system with a good storage technology to perform poorly when implemented with a suboptimal architecture, while other energy storage systems with mediocre storage technologies can perform well when implemented with superior architectures.
China's Space Programme
This book comprehensively covers the history and current developments of space programme of China. It presents the complete story of China's space programme from its origins through to present day activities on the International Space Station. This monograph further discusses the role of China's space strategy in its emergence as a major power on the world stage. The book also presents the context of China's space program within the larger narrative of international space development. The book binds together the diverse political, military, economic and technology aspects into a coherent understanding and explains their role in the establishment and growth of Chinese space programme. Given the contents, this book will be a valuable source of information for students, researchers, and historians in the area of space studies.
Molecular Physical Chemistry for Engineering Applications
This textbook introduces the molecular side of physical chemistry. It offers students and practitioners a new approach to the subject by presenting numerous applications and solved problems that illustrate the concepts introduced for varied and complex technical situations. The book offers a balance between theory, tools, and practical applications. The text aims to be a practical manual for solving engineering problems in industries where processes depend on the chemical composition and physical properties of matter.The book is organized into three main topics: (I) the molecular structure of matter, (II) molecular models in thermodynamics, and (III) transport phenomena and mechanisms. Part I presents methods of analysis of the molecular behavior in a given system, while the following parts use these methods to study the equilibrium states of a material system and to analyze the processes that can take place when the system is in a state of non-equilibrium, in particular the transport phenomena. Molecular Physical Chemistry for Engineering Applications is designed for upper-level undergraduate and graduate courses in physical chemistry for engineers, applied physical chemistry, transport phenomena, colloidal chemistry, and transport/transfer processes. The book will also be a valuable reference guide for engineers, technicians, and scientists working in industry.Offers modeling techniques and tools for solving exercises and practical cases; Provides solutions and conclusions so students can follow results more closely; Step-by-step problem solving enables students to understand how to approach complex issues.
Physics of Liquid Matter
This book offers a didactic and a self-contained treatment of the physics of liquid and flowing matter with a statistical mechanics approach. Experimental and theoretical methods that were developed to study fluids are now frequently applied to a number of more complex systems generically referred to as soft matter. As for simple liquids, also for complex fluids it is important to understand how their macroscopic behavior is determined by the interactions between the component units. Moreover, in recent years new and relevant insights have emerged from the study of anomalous phases and metastable states of matter. In addition to the traditional topics concerning fluids in normal conditions, the authors of this book discuss recent developments in the field of disordered systems in condensed and soft matter. In particular they emphasize computer simulation techniques that are used in the study of soft matter and the theoriesand study of slow glassy dynamics. For these reasons the book includes a specific chapter about metastability, supercooled liquids and glass transition.The book is written for graduate students and active researchers in the field.
Introduction to Lorentz Geometry
This book intends to provide the reader with the minimum math background needed to pursue interesting questions like what is the relation between gravity and curvature by presenting the classical theory of curves and surfaces in both Euclidean and Lorentzian ambient spaces simultaneously.
Outer Space and Me
Josiah is a kid who loves exploring Outer Space. He imagines himself in places that are mysterious and interesting to him. Learn something new from a future scientist who explores galaxies, black holes, solar flares, and more. Activities inside!
Magnetic Nanoparticles
Magnetic Nanoparticles Learn how to make and use magnetic nanoparticles in energy research, electrical engineering, and medicine In Magnetic Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications, a team of distinguished engineers and chemists delivers an insightful overview of magnetic materials with a focus on nano-sized particles. The book reviews the foundational concepts of magnetism before moving on to the synthesis of various magnetic nanoparticles and the functionalization of nanoparticles that enables their use in specific applications. The authors also highlight characterization techniques and the characteristics of nanostructured magnetic materials, like superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometry. Advanced applications of magnetic nanoparticles in energy research, engineering, and medicine are also discussed, and explicit derivations and explanations in non-technical language help readers from diverse backgrounds understand the concepts contained within. Readers will also find: A thorough introduction to magnetic materials, including the theory and fundamentals of magnetization In-depth explorations of the types and characteristics of soft and hard magnetic materials Comprehensive discussions of the synthesis of nanostructured magnetic materials, including the importance of various preparation methods Expansive treatments of the surface modification of magnetic nanoparticles, including the technical resources employed in the process Perfect for materials scientists, applied physicists, and measurement and control engineers, Magnetic Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications will also earn a place in the libraries of inorganic chemists.
Renewable Energy and Sustainability
Renewable Electricity and Sustainability: Prospects in Developing Economies is the first book of its kind to be dedicated entirely to the needs of emerging economies. It provides readers with a comprehensive review of current renewable energy technologies, their status in emerging economies, and the potential for sustainable renewable electricity generation in those countries. A multidisciplinary approach is used to assess the needs and challenges of each region, which is supported by quantitative analyses of the current and future potential for renewable electricity generation. Real-world examples are also provided from the respective electricity sectors of each region. This resource is a unique reference for graduates and researchers on the social, technical and economic landscape of renewable energy in emerging economies and would also be useful to NGO's and policymakers in developing countries or those working in sustainable development.
Seismic Data Interpretation and Evaluation for Hydrocarbon Exploration and Production
This book is meant for geoscientists and engineers who are beginners, and introduces them to the field of seismic data interpretation and evaluation. The exquisite seismic illustrations and real case examples interspersed in the text help the readers appreciate the interpretation of seismic data in a simple way, and at the same time, emphasize the multidisciplinary, integrated practical approach to data evaluation. A concerted effort has been made for the readers to realize that mindless interpretation of seismic data using sophisticated software packages, without having a grasp on the elementary principles of geology and geophysics, and coupled with their over-reliance on workstations to provide solutions can have appalling results all too very often.
Entropy and Free Energy in Structural Biology
Enhanced by a number of solved problems and examples, this volume will be a valuable resource to advanced undergraduate and graduate students in chemistry, chemical engineering, biochemistry biophysics, pharmacology, and computational biology.
The Romance of Reality
Why do we exist? For centuries, this question was the sole province of religion and philosophy. But now science is ready to take a seat at the table. According to the prevailing scientific paradigm, the universe tends toward randomness; it functions according to laws without purpose, and the emergence of life is an accident devoid of meaning. But this bleak interpretation of nature is currently being challenged by cutting-edge findings at the intersection of physics, biology, neuroscience, and information theory--generally referred to as "complexity science." Thanks to a new understanding of evolution, as well as recent advances in our understanding of the phenomenon known as emergence, a new cosmic narrative is taking shape: Nature's simplest "parts" come together to form ever-greater "wholes" in a process that has no end in sight. In The Romance of Reality, cognitive neuroscientist Bobby Azarian explains the science behind this new view of reality and explores what it means for all of us. In engaging, accessible prose, Azarian outlines the fundamental misunderstanding of thermodynamics at the heart of the old assumptions about the universe's evolution, and shows us the evidence that suggests that the universe is a "self-organizing" system, one that is moving toward increasing complexity and awareness. Cosmologist and science communicator Carl Sagan once said of humanity that "we are a way for the cosmos to know itself." The Romance of Reality shows that this poetic statement in fact rests on a scientific foundation and gives us a new way to know the cosmos, along with a riveting vision of life that imbues existence with meaning--nothing supernatural required.
