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This undergraduate-level textbook offers a unique and in-depth approach to the study of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. It covers the…
fundamentals of thermodynamics using both traditional and postulatory approaches, including origin of the concept of thermodynamic entropy, Euler’s equation, Gibbs-Duhem relations, stability of equilibrium, and the concept of thermodynamic potentials, and that of independent thermodynamic observables. The book then delves into the microscopic foundation of thermodynamics, starting with the kinetic theory and highlighting its historical development. Boltzmann's concept of entropy is explored, along with its applications in deriving Planck’s, Bose’s, Bose-Einstein, and Fermi-Dirac distribution functions. The formal structure of classical and quantum statistical mechanics is built based on the concept of statistical entropy and the maximum entropy principle and used to investigate in detail the thermodynamic properties of ideal classical and quantum systems. The book also covers phase transitions, simple theory of critical phenomena, and the theory of interacting van der Waals gases. Throughout the text, the book provides historical context, enriching the reader's understanding. This textbook is a valuable resource for undergraduate physics students, offering comprehensive coverage, including overlooked topics, and a historical perspective on thermodynamics and statistical mechanics.This book presents an introduction to quantum mechanics that consistently uses the methods of operator theory, allowing readers to develop…
a physical understanding of quantum mechanical systems. The methods of operator theory are discussed throughout the book and presented with a mathematically rigorous approach. The author describes in detail how to use the methods of operator theory for analyzing quantum mechanical systems, starting with the definition of the involved physical operators (observables) up to the calculation of their spectra, spectral measures, and functional calculus. In addition, the book includes the construction of exponential functions of the involved Hamilton operators that solve the problem of time evolution.This book meticulously examines over one hundred documents of research notes by Albert Einstein, many of which were previously unidentified,…
held in the archives of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the Einstein Papers Project at Caltech. Focused on Einstein's quest for a five-dimensional unified field theory of gravitation and electromagnetism, the analysis provides unique insights into his mathematical skills, thinking, and modus operandi. This academic exploration also investigates the role of mathematics in Einstein’s theorizing with a special focus on projective geometry and delta functions.This book focuses on methods of how to understand the relationship between the structure and physical properties of polymers from…
the microscopic point of view on the basis of experimental and theoretical methodologies. It is the second volume of a two volume set with Structural Science of Crystalline Polymers. The first volume of the series, “Structural Science of Crystalline Polymers: Basic Concepts and Practices” describes the details of techniques for analysis of the hierarchical structure of crystalline polymers from both the experimental and theoretical points of view. Readers of the first volume who master the concrete techniques and concepts necessary for the analysis of the structure of polymers are now invited to begin this second volume. The methods introduced in this book are useful not only for understanding the physical properties of crystalline regions but also for interpreting the bulk properties of polymer materials from the 3D structural point of view. Forthis purpose, a concrete description is provided so that readers can use the theory or the program in the actual interpretation of physical properties. The physical properties of polymers are intimately related to the structural evolution in the crystallization process and also the structural changes in the samples subjected to an external field. Concrete methods and examples are introduced for these studies, making the book a useful and practical guide for young professional researchers, including those working in industry. At the same time, it can also be used as an excellent reference for graduate-level students.Under Alien Skies: A Sightseer's Guide to the Universe
By Philip Plait. 2023
A Financial Times Best Science Book of 2023 • A Science News Favorite Book of 2023 • A Scientific American…
2023 Staff Recommendation "The next-best thing to traveling through space and time." —Laura Helmuth, editor in chief of Scientific American A rip-roaring tour of the cosmos with the Bad Astronomer, bringing you up close and personal with the universe like never before. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel the universe? How would Saturn’s rings look from a spaceship sailing just above them? If you were falling into a black hole, what’s the last thing you’d see before getting spaghettified? While traveling in person to most of these amazing worlds may not be possible—yet—the would-be space traveler need not despair: you can still take the scenic route through the galaxy with renowned astronomer and science communicator Philip Plait. On this lively, immersive adventure through the cosmos, Plait draws ingeniously on both the latest scientific research and his prodigious imagination to transport you to ten of the most spectacular sights outer space has to offer. In vivid, inventive scenes informed by rigorous science—injected with a dose of Plait’s trademark humor—Under Alien Skies places you on the surface of alien worlds, from our own familiar Moon to the far reaches of our solar system and beyond. Try launching yourself onto a two-hundred-meter asteroid, or stargazing from the rim of an ancient volcano on a planet where, from the place you stand, it is eternally late afternoon. Experience the sudden onset of lunar nightfall, the disorientation of walking—or, rather, shuffling—when you weigh almost nothing, the irritation of jagged regolith dust. Glimpse the frigid mountains and plains of Pluto and the cake-like exterior of a comet called 67P. On a planet trillions of miles from Earth, glance down to see the strange, beautiful shadows cast by a hundred thousand stars. For the aspiring extraterrestrial citizen, casual space tourist, or curious armchair traveler, Plait is an illuminating, always-entertaining guide to the most otherworldly views in our universe.Space Mathematics: Math Problems Based on Space Science (Dover Books on Aeronautical Engineering)
By Bernice Kastner. 2012
Created by NASA for high school students interested in space science, this collection of worked problems covers a broad range…
of subjects, including mathematical aspects of NASA missions, computation and measurement, algebra, geometry, probability and statistics, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometry, matrix algebra, conic sections, and calculus. In addition to enhancing mathematical knowledge and skills, these problems promote an appreciation of aerospace technology and offer valuable insights into the practical uses of secondary school mathematics by professional scientists and engineers.Geared toward high school students and teachers, this volume also serves as a fine review for undergraduate science and engineering majors. Numerous figures illuminate the text, and an appendix explores the advanced topic of gravitational forces and the conic section trajectories.How AI Thinks: How we built it, how it can help us, and how we can control it
By Nigel Toon. 2024
THE #2 TIMES BESTSELLER'Artificial intelligence is going to have a massive impact on everyone’s lives... an accessible and sensible read…
that helps demystify AI' Deborah Meaden, entrepreneur and star of Dragon's Den'Nigel Toon is a visionary leader in the field of artificial intelligence... a must-read' Marc Tremblay, Distinguished Engineer, MicrosoftThose who understand how AI thinks are about to win big.We are used to thinking of computers as being a step up from calculators - very good at storing information, and maybe even at playing a logical game like chess. But up to now they haven't been able to think in ways that are intuitive, or respond to questions as a human might. All that has changed, dramatically, in the past few years.Our search engines are becoming answer engines. Artificial intelligence is already revolutionising sectors from education to healthcare to the creative arts. But how does an AI understand sentiment or context? How does it play and win games that have an almost infinite number of moves? And how can we work with AI to produce insights and innovations that are beyond human capacity, from writing code in an instant to unfolding the elaborate 3D puzzles of proteins?We stand at the brink of a historic change that will disrupt society and at the same time create enormous opportunities for those who understand how AI thinks. Nigel Toon shows how we train AI to train itself, so that it can paint images that have never existed before or converse in any language. In doing so he reveals the strange and fascinating ways that humans think, too, as we learn how to live in a world shared by machine intelligences of our own creation.A Meteorite Killed My Cow: Stuff That Happens When Space Rocks Hit Earth
By Richard Greenwood. 2024
Meteorites are generally considered to be bizarre and exotic space junk that you only ever come across in museums. But…
the reality is very different. Meteorites are generally harmless, with the exception of a cow in Venezuela and a few dinosaurs. Well, quite a few dinosaurs in fact! They are arriving on Earth every day, everywhere, in the form of fine dust. The result is that meteorites can be collected from the rooftops of houses everywhere. It’s not easy and you need to know what to look for. This book will help. Meteorites are the oldest rocks in our Solar System and contain grains that are even older. These space rocks provide science with the best available evidence concerning the origin and early evolution of the Solar System.This book introduces the reader to the fascinating and sometimes bizarre world of space rocks using a simple, clear layman-friendly style. It explains why they are so special and describes their main characteristics. The non-technical approach used throughout the book make it particularly accessible to the general public and it will be of interest to anyone looking to learn more about these cosmic visitors and the wealth of scientific information they contain.Features: Provides a concise introduction to the world of meteorites in an accessible and non-technical way Demonstrates how meteorites can be found locally and provides practical guidance on how to search for them! Emphasizes the human side of meteorites and how ordinary people can and do encounter meteorites in a wide variety of settingsThis book presents the proceedings of the ‘3rd International Conference on Advanced Surface Enhancement’, INCASE 2023. It compiles the papers…
presented by researchers in surface engineering field at INCASE 2023 conference. The book presents a comprehensive review of the state of the art in surface engineering-related techniques and strategies, with a focus towards sustainability. The main topics include ‘Advanced techniques for surface engineering towards enhanced performance’, ‘Surface and sub-surface characterisation’, ‘Simulation and modelling of surface integrity’, ‘Advanced coating materials design synthesis and industry applications’, and ‘Emerging trends in surface engineering’. The book identifies the gaps between research and manufacturing and promotes sustainable approaches towards development of surface engineering solutions for adoption by industry. The book is useful for researchers, scientists, students, and engineers working in the field of surface engineering.A Mathematical Journey to Relativity: Deriving Special and General Relativity with Basic Mathematics (UNITEXT for Physics)
By Wladimir-Georges Boskoff, Salvatore Capozziello. 2024
The 2nd edition of this textbook features more than 100 pages of new material, including four new chapters, as well…
as an improved discussion of differential geometry concepts and their applications. The textbook aims to provide a comprehensive geometric description of Special and General Relativity, starting from basic Euclidean geometry to more advanced non-Euclidean geometry and differential geometry. Readers will learn about the Schwarzschild metric, the relativistic trajectory of planets, the deflection of light, the black holes, and the cosmological solutions like de Sitter, Friedman-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker, and Gödel ones, as well as the implications of each of them for the observed physical world. In addition, the book provides step-by-step solutions to problems and exercises, making it an ideal introduction for undergraduate students and readers looking to gain a better understanding of Special and General Relativity. In this new edition, a wide discussion on metric-affine theories of gravity and equivalent formulations of General Relativity is reported. The aim is presenting also topics which could be useful for PhD students and researchers studying General Relativity from an advanced point of view.Nanostructured Materials for Electronic Nose (Advanced Structured Materials #213)
By Nirav J. Joshi, Sachin Navale. 2024
This book presents recent developments and fascinating attributes of electronic-nose (E-nose) technology based on advanced nanostructured materials that are compatible…
with modern semiconductor fabrication technology. The new trend in these nanostructured materials includes metal oxide nanostructures, 2D materials, graphene, and other carbon-based nanostructures. These versatile materials with remarkable electronic, mechanical, electrical, thermal properties, and potential e-nose in a wide range of fields are discussed in the book. Close attention is given to problems connected with stability, selectivity, and functionalizing of e-nose devices and deposited materials. The field of sensors is indeed in fast and consistent growth. This book consolidates information on each and every aspect of these novel materials, their gas sensing mechanisms, engineering, and e-nose devices covering the entire spectrum of up-to-date literature citations, current market, and patents in a very detailed manner. Moreover, in the past few years, tremendous advances have been made in experimental and theoretical studies on various properties of these materials. In summary, this book makes an attempt to provide in-depth study of recent advances and focuses on current problems related to selectivity and stability of sensor devices. The book is interesting to all materials professionals and researchers from universities and national laboratories working in the field of nanostructured materials-based gas sensors.Advances in Electrical Systems and Innovative Renewable Energy Techniques: The Proceedings of the International Conference on Electrical Systems and Automation (Volume 1) (Advances in Science, Technology & Innovation)
By Mohamed Bendaoud, Amine El Fathi, Farhad Ilahi Bakhsh, Siano Pierluigi. 2024
This edited book on “Advances in Electrical Systems and Innovative Renewable Energy Techniques” is an outcome of the selected papers…
presented at the International Conference on Electrical Systems & Automation, (ICESA 2023) held from 29 to 30, May 2023 at the Faculty of Sciences and technologies, Al Hoceïma, Morocco.This edited book is divided into 2 volumes. This volume will be divided into 3 parts, each devoted to distinct yet interconnected aspects of the subject matter.The first part focuses on various advancements in renewable energy techniques. It explores topics ranging from biomass combustion characteristics and hydrogen production using photovoltaics to the assessment of wave energy potential and the performance evaluation of solar collectors. These research papers not only shed light on the current state-of-the-art technologies but also offer valuable insights into their implementation, efficiency, and potential impact on the energy landscape.The second part focuses on interdisciplinary approaches between electrical and renewable energy systems and includes research chapters on photovoltaic (PV) energy, wind energy, and microgrid systems.For PV systems, several topics and issues are addressed such as modeling of PV systems using single diode model and double diode model; analytical and numerical methods for extraction of PV parameters; extraction of maximum power from PV system using integral SMC strategy, sun-pointing orientation, SuDoKu, and ANN algorithms; and fault detection and classification based on metaheuristic technique, and feedforward neural network.For the wind system, its modeling is first discussed, and then the control of the wind system using direct power, PI, fuzzy logic, sliding mode, and time delay strategies is analyzed.In the third part, the chapters focus on efficient energy management, optimization of microgrids, and the use of advancedtechnologies to improve energy performance. Researchers present innovative solutions to address the challenges of energy efficiency, grid responsiveness, and the integration of new energy sources.One of The Barnes and Noble Review Editors' Picks: Best Nonfiction of 2012Selected by The Christian Science Monitor as one…
of "21 smart nonfiction titles we think you'll enjoy this summer"Selected by The New Scientist as one of 10 books to look out for in 2012We've long understood black holes to be the points at which the universe as we know it comes to an end. Often billions of times more massive than the Sun, they lurk in the inner sanctum of almost every galaxy of stars in the universe. They're mysterious chasms so destructive and unforgiving that not even light can escape their deadly wrath.Recent research, however, has led to a cascade of new discoveries that have revealed an entirely different side to black holes. As the astrophysicist Caleb Scharf reveals in Gravity's Engines, these chasms in space-time don't just vacuum up everything that comes near them; they also spit out huge beams and clouds of matter. Black holes blow bubbles.With clarity and keen intellect, Scharf masterfully explains how these bubbles profoundly rearrange the cosmos around them. Engaging with our deepest questions about the universe, he takes us on an intimate journey through the endlessly colorful place we call our galaxy and reminds us that the Milky Way sits in a special place in the cosmic zoo—a "sweet spot" of properties. Is it coincidental that we find ourselves here at this place and time? Could there be a deeper connection between the nature of black holes and their role in the universe and the phenomenon of life? We are, after all, made of the stuff of stars.Parallax: The Race to Measure the Cosmos (Dover Books On Astronomy Ser.)
By Alan W. Hirshfeld. 2013
In the dramatic tradition of the best-selling Longitude, Parallax charts the historical path of observational astronomy's most daunting challenge: measuring…
the distance to a star. The greatest scientific minds applied themselves in vain to the problem across the millennia, beginning with the ancient Greeks. Not until the nineteenth century would three astronomers, armed with the best telescopes of the age, race to conquer this astronomical Everest—their contest ending in a virtual dead heat. Against a sweeping backdrop filled with kidnappings, dramatic rescue, swordplay, madness, and bitter rivalry, Alan Hirshfeld brings to life the heroes of this remarkable story. Meet the destitute boy plucked from a collapsed building who becomes the greatest telescope maker the world has ever seen; the hot-tempered Dane whose nose is lopped off in a duel over mathematics; the merchant's apprentice forced to choose between the lure of money and his passion for astronomy; and the musician who astounds the world by discovering a new planet from his own backyard. Generously illustrated with diagrams, period engravings, and paintings, Parallax is an unforgettable tale that illuminates the distinctly human side of science.First for Women is a women's interest magazine that gives its readers the tools and inspiration they need to feel…
great, look beautiful and love every dimension of their life. Published every three weeks, First delivers positive information on everything from health and nutrition, to beauty and fitness, to home and family.Proceedings of the 8th International Conference on Space Science and Communication: IconSpace 2023, 3–4 October, Penang, Malaysia (Springer Proceedings in Physics #303)
By Mohammad Tariqul Islam, Norbahiah Misran, Mandeep Jit Singh. 2024
This book presents peer-reviewed articles from the 8th International Conference on Space Science and Communication (IConSpace 2023), held at Penang…
in Malaysia. It addresses complications of ground-breaking initiatives and solutions for space science and communications research, telecommunications, and meteorology. With the theme Advanced Space Technology: Accelerating Global Agenda will provide valid information to understand trends, evaluate needs, and create global development policies and programs in the best interest of all. It brings together researchers, engineers, geospatialist, meteorologists, astronomers, and practitioners in order to present the latest applications in space science, telecommunications, meteorology, remote sensing, and related fields.AQA A Level Physics Student Book 1
By Nick England, Jeremy Pollard, Nicky Thomas, Carol Davenport. 2015
Exam Board: AQALevel: AS/A-levelSubject: PhysicsFirst Teaching: September 2015First Exam: June 2016AQA ApprovedExpand and challenge your students' knowledge and understanding of…
Physics with textbooks that build mathematical skills and provide practical assessment guidance. - Offers support for the mathematical requirements of the course with worked examples of calculations and a dedicated 'Maths in Physics' chapter- Measures progress and assess learning throughout the course with Test Yourself and Stretch and Challenge Questions to extend the most able pupils beyond A-level- Supports all 12 required practicals with applications, worked examples and activities included in each chapter- Develops understanding and enable self- and peer-assessment with free online access to 'Test yourself' answers.AQA A-level Physics Year 1 Student Book includes AS-level.Entangled Minds: Extrasensory Experiences in a Quantum Reality
By Dean Radin. 2006
Is everything connected? Can we sense what's happening to loved ones thousands of miles away? Why are we sometimes certain…
of a caller's identity the instant the phone rings? Do intuitive hunches contain information about future events? Is it possible to perceive without the use of the ordinary senses?Many people believe that "psychic phenomena" are rare talents or divine gifts. Others don't believe they exist at all. But the latest scientific research shows that these phenomena are both real and widespread, and are an unavoidable consequence of the interconnected, entangled physical reality we live in. Albert Einstein called entanglement "spooky action at a distance"—the way two objects remain connected through time and space, without communicating in any conventional way, long after their initial interaction has taken place. Could a similar entanglement of minds explain our apparent psychic abilities? Dean Radin, senior scientist at the Institute of Noetic Sciences, believes it might. In this illuminating book, Radin shows how we know that psychic phenomena such as telepathy, clairvoyance, and psychokinesis are real, based on scientific evidence from thousands of controlled lab tests. Radin surveys the origins of this research and explores, among many topics, the collective premonitions of 9/11. He reveals the physical reality behind our uncanny telepathic experiences and intuitive hunches, and he debunks the skeptical myths surrounding them. Entangled Minds sets the stage for a rational, scientific understanding of psychic experience.The Greatest Story Ever Told--So Far: Why Are We Here?
By Lawrence M. Krauss. 2017
From award-winning physicist, public intellectual, and the bestselling author of A Universe from Nothing Lawrence Krauss, comes &“a masterful blend…
of history, modern physics, and cosmic perspective that empowers the reader to not only embrace our understanding of the universe, but also revel in what remains to be discovered&” (Neil deGrasse Tyson, American Museum of Natural History).In this grand poetic vision of the universe, Lawrence Krauss tells the dramatic story of the discovery of the hidden world that underlies reality—and our place within it. Reality is not what you think or sense—it&’s weird, wild, and counterintuitive, and its inner workings seem at least as implausible as the idea that something can come from nothing. With his trademark wit and accessible style, Krauss leads us to realms so small that they are invisible to microscopes, to the birth and rebirth of light, and into the natural forces that govern our existence. His unique blend of rigorous research and engaging storytelling invites us into the lives and minds of remarkable scientists who have helped unravel the unexpected fabric of reality with reasoning rather than superstition and dogma, and to explain how everything we see—and can&’t see—came about. A passionate advocate for reason, Krauss gives the rationale for the seemingly irrational—and the mysteries and apparent contradictions of quantum physics, and explores what that means for our lives here on Earth—and beyond. At its core, The Greatest Story Ever Told—So Far is about the best of what it means to be human—an epic history of our ultimately purposeless universe that addresses the question, &“Why are we here?&”