Imparts the similarities and differences between ratified and condensed matter, classical and quantum systems as well as real and ideal gases. Presents the quasi-thermodynamic theory of gas-liquid interface and its application for density profile calculation within the van der Waals theory of surface tension. Uses inductive logic to lead readers from observation and facts to personal interpretation and from specific conclusions to general ones.

An introduction to thermal physics which combines both a macroscopic and microscopic approach for each method, giving a basis for further studies of the properties of matter, whether from a thermodynamic or statistical angle.

A thorough examination of kinetic theory and its successes in understanding and describing irreversible phenomena in physical systems.

This textbook is intended for introductory courses in physics, engineering and chemistry at universities, polytechnics and technical colleges. It provides either an elementary treatment of thermal physics, complete in itself, for those who need to carry the subject no further, or a sound foundation for further study in more specialised courses. The author gives a clear and concise account of those basic concepts that provide the foundations for an understanding of the thermal properties of matter. The area covered corresponds very roughly to the traditional topics of heat, kinetic theory, and those properties of matter for which there are elementary explanations in terms of interatomic forces. The book is not concerned with experimental detail but with ideas and concepts, and their quantitative application through simple models. The author provides many problems for which the answers are included. The book should also be useful in teacher training and as a reference book in the libraries of schools where pupils are being prepared for tertiary courses.

This book introduces physics students and teachers to the historical development of the kinetic theory of gases, by providing a collection of the most important contributions by Clausius, Maxwell and Boltzmann, with introductory surveys explaining their significance. In addition, extracts from the works of Boyle, Newton, Mayer, Joule, Helmholtz, Kelvin and others show the historical context of ideas about gases, energy and irreversibility. In addition to five thematic essays connecting the classical kinetic theory with 20th century topics such as indeterminism and interatomic forces, there is an extensive international bibliography of historical commentaries on kinetic theory, thermodynamics, etc. published in the past four decades.The book will be useful to historians of science who need primary and secondary sources to be conveniently available for their own research and interpretation, along with the bibliography which makes it easier to learn what other historians have already done on this subject.