Includes bibliographical references and index.

Review of classical mechanics and thermodynamics -- The basis of statistical mechanics -- Steepest descent -- Gaussian distribution and ensemble equivalence. Fluctuations -- A variational principle, phase space, classical averaging and omega -- Gases -- Homonuclear diatomic molecules -- Polyatomic molecules -- Internal rotation -- Polymers -- More polymers -- Excluded volume of polymer chains -- Imperfect gases and liquids -- Bose-Einstein, Fermi-Dirac and Boltzmann statistics, quantum gas -- Adsorption -- Head capacities of solids.

"This book is the distilled essence of the author teaching statistical mechanics to juniors, seniors and graduate students for over 50 years in various course settings. It uses a unique approach that leads naturally into the development of all possible ensembles. Much of the later chapters on polymers has previously been available only in the literature. Throughout the book, the assumption is made that the reader is still relatively raw, and mathematical detail is provided that other books leave to the abilities of the reader. While this produces a plethora of equations that mature scientists would regard as unnecessary, it is intended to help those just coming into the field and who want to get the idea without suffering hours of agony wondering, "where did that come from?"."-- Provided by publisher.

English