Statistical Thermodynamics

Abstract

The objective and mode of thinking of statistical thermodynamics are explained with key references. The problems of statistical thermodynamics fall into two categories: studies of universal structures and studies of materials constants. The modern statistical thermodynamics emphasizes the former category. Consequently, recognizing a universality class described by a well‐defined phenomenological framework and constructing a minimal model to elucidate it statistically are the key problems. From this point of view, equilibrium and nonequilibrium statistical thermodynamics are outlined with brief introduction to new developments in this century.