Small Systems and Fundamentals of Thermodynamics

Small systems are a very active area of research and development due to improved instrumentation that allows for spatial resolution in the range of sizes from one to 100 nm. In this size range, many physical and chemical properties change, which opens up new approaches to the study of substances and their practical application. This affects both traditional fields of knowledge and many other new fields including physics, chemistry, biology, etc. This book highlights new developments in statistical thermodynamics that answer the most important questions about the specifics of small systems - when one cannot apply equations or traditional thermodynamic models.

Foreword

Symbols and Abbreviations

1 Background

2 Fundamentals of molecular theory

3 Phase separation boundary

4 Small systems and size fluctuations 5 Non-equilibrium processes

6 Elementary stages of the evolution of the system

7 Analysis of thermodynamic interpretations

Conclusion

Appendix 1: Metastable drops

Appendix 2: Transfer equations and dissipative coefficients

Appendix 3: Coefficients of activity in associated solutions

Index

Yu. K. Tovbin, Russian Academy of Science, Moscow