Molecular Driving Forces

Molecular Driving Forces, Second Edition is an introductory statistical thermodynamics text that describes the principles and forces that drive chemical and biological processes. It demonstrates how the complex behaviors of molecules can result from a few simple physical processes, and how simple models provide surprisingly accurate insights into the workings of the molecular world.

Widely adopted in its First Edition, Molecular Driving Forces is regarded by teachers and students as an accessible textbook that illuminates underlying principles and concepts. The Second Edition includes two brand new chapters: (1) "Microscopic Dynamics" introduces single molecule experiments; and (2) "Molecular Machines" considers how nanoscale machines and engines work. "The Logic of Thermodynamics" has been expanded to its own chapter and now covers heat, work, processes, pathways, and cycles. New practical applications, examples, and end-of-chapter questions are integrated throughout the revised and updated text, exploring topics in biology, environmental and energy science, and nanotechnology. Written in a clear and reader-friendly style, the book provides an excellent introduction to the subject for novices while remaining a valuable resource for experts.

1: Principles of Probability

2: Extremum Principles Predict Equilibria

3: Heat, Work & Energy

4: Math Tools: Multivariate Calculus

5: Entropy & the Boltzmann Law

6: Thermodynamic Driving Forces

7: The Logic of Thermodynamics

8: Laboratory Conditions & Free Energies

9: Maxwell's Relations & Mixtures

10: The Boltzman Distribution Law

11: The Statistical Mechanics of Simple Gases & Solids

12: What Is Temperature? What Is Heat Capacity?

13: Chemical Equilibria

14: Equilibria Between Liquids, Solids, & Gases

15: Solutions & Mixtures

16: The Solvation & Transfer of Molecules Between Phases

17: Physical Kinetics: Diffusion, Permeation & Flow

18: Microscopic Dynamics

19: Chemical Kinetics & Transition States

20: Coulomb's Law of Electrostatic Forces

21: The Electrostatic Potential

22: Electrochemical Equilibria

23: Salt Ions Shield Charged Objects in Solution

24: Intermolecular Interactions

25: Phase Transitions

26: Cooperativity: The Hexlix-Coil, Isling & Landau Models

27: Adsorption, Binding & Catalysis

28: Multi-site & Cooperative Ligand Binding

29: Bio & Nano Machines

30: Water

31: Water as a Solvent

32: Polymer Solutions

33: Polymer Elasticity & Collapse

34: Polymers Resist Confinement & Deformation

Appendices