Molecular Driving Forces: Statistical Thermodynamics in Chemistry and Biology

This text shows how many complex behaviors of molecules can result from a few simple physical processes. A central theme is the idea that simplistic models can give surprisingly accurate insights into the workings of the molecular world. Written in a clear and student-friendly style, the book gives an excellent introduction to the field for novices. It should also be useful to those who want to refresh their understanding of this important field, and those interested in seeing how physical principles can be applied to the study of problems in the chemical, biological, and material sciences. Furthermore, Molecular Driving Forces contains a number of features including: 449 carefully produced figures illustrating the subject matter; 178 worked examples in the chapters which explain the key concepts and show their practical applications; The text is mathematically self-contained, with 'mathematical toolkits' providing the required maths; Advanced material that might not be suitable for some elementary courses is clearly delineated in the text; End-of-chapter references and suggestions for further reading.