Theory of liquids: from excitations to thermodynamics

Abstract

Of the three basic states of matter, liquid is perhaps the most complex. While its flow properties are described by fluid mechanics, its thermodynamic properties are often neglected, and for many years it was widely believed that a general theory of liquid thermodynamics was unattainable. In recent decades that view has been challenged, as new advances have finally enabled us to understand and describe the thermodynamic properties of liquids. This book explains the recent developments in theory, experiment and modelling that have enabled us to understand the behaviour of excitations in liquids and the impact of this behaviour on heat capacity and other basic properties. Presented in plain language with a focus on real liquids and their experimental properties, this book is a useful reference text for researchers and graduate students in condensed matter physics and chemistry, as well as for advanced courses covering the theory of liquids.