Publisher's Synopsis
This text offers an introduction to probability theory and distribution functions. The text might also be used for courses in solid state and material sciences offered by physics, chemistry and engineering departments.;The book includes relevant mathematical material; presents the statistical mechanics against a background of quantum mechanics; examines a wide range of applications from perfect gases and specific heats to electrical conduction, band theory of solids and low temperature physics; introduces computer simulations like the Monte Carlo strategy for liquids; uses worked examples to illustrate theory; and provides historical annotations.
