Thermodynamics and statistical mechanics (Wilson, A.H.)

Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

The field of thermodynamics is easiest to understand in the context of Newtonian mechanics. Newtonian mechanics describes the effect of forces on objects. Thermodynamics describes the effect of heat transfer on objects. When heat is transferred,the temperature of an object changes.Temperature and heat are also intimately related to energy. A hot gas in a piston has a high pressure and it can do...

Thermodynamics and Introductory Statistical Mechanics

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Thermodynamics, Statistical Mechanics and Entropy

The proper definition of thermodynamics and the thermodynamic entropy is discussed in the light of recent developments. The postulates for thermodynamics are examined critically, and some modifications are suggested to allow for the inclusion of long-range forces (within a system), inhomogeneous systems with non-extensive entropy, and systems that can have negative temperatures. Only the thermo...

Thermodynamics, Statistical Mechanics and Large Deviations

Statistical Mechanics and Black Hole Thermodynamics

Black holes are thermodynamic objects, but despite recent progress, the ultimate statistical mechanical origin of black hole temperature and entropy remains mysterious. Here I summarize an approach in which the entropy is viewed as arising from “would-be pure gauge” degrees of freedom that become dynamical at the horizon. For the (2+1)-dimensional black hole, these degrees of freedom can be cou...