Gives students an understanding of thermodynamics and the principles of equilibrium statistical mechanics. This work aims to introduce them to the topics of Monte Carlo sampling, renormalization group theory, and the fluctuation-dissipation theorem. It is suitable for students of chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, and physics.

Thermodynamics, fundamentals; conditions for equilibrium and stability; statistical mechanics; non-interacting (ideal) systems; statistical mechanical theory of phase transitions; Monte Carlo method in statistical mechanics; classical fluids; statistical mechanics of non-equilibrium systems.

"The exposition is very clear, and although elementary, this book is an example of a text which requires a large degree of reader participation. . . . People teaching modern statistical physics will like the book and those who prefer a more traditional approach will be pleasantly surprised to see a new way in which all traditional subjects can be included in a textbook, so it can be a valuable tool in teaching any course of statistical physics." --Mathematical Reviews "There is clearly a strong case for any textbook which seeks to provide a continuous thread from tradition to modernity. Chandler's book seems to be the first attempt at such a task....Suitable for undergraduates and first-year graduate students, [it] aims to provide an introduction to modern concepts and techniques in statistical mechanics without presupposing an undue degree of previous exposure to the subject. I strongly suspect that this book will prove popular with students and teachers alike."--The Times Higher Education Supplement "Exactly what I was looking for. I will also use this in my graduate course."--Greg H. Zimmerman, Tennessee State University "An excellent introduction emphasizing major modern topics such as Monte Carlo sampling, renormalization groups. and the fluctuation-dissipation theorem." --American Mathematical Monthly "The text is clear and spare and addresses the latest developments in statistical mechanics in a manner an undergraduate could readily understand." --New Scientist "A refreshing, lucid and much-needed textbook in an area which remains inaccessible to many students."--G. P. Matthews, Plymouth Polytechnic, England "Chandler's book gives an excellent introduction to statistical mechanics, and is highly recommended to any student majoring in physics or chemistry." --SIAM Review "The book is highly recommended for the excellent discussions that it contains." --American Scientist "A breezy and enthusiastic guide with quite solid content. All in all this is an outstanding job." --Physics Today "This is a book which pleases in many ways. The author's style is engaging, the questions sprinkled throughout the whole book are both entertaining and interesting." --Education in Chemistry