The Bases of Chemical Thermodynamics

In this volume (volume 2), the tools necessary to study and understand systems in which chemical reactions can take place are developed. The variables of reaction are the keys to this understanding. Criteria for chemical equilibrium are established. It is shown how chemical reactions can provide work as, for example, in batteries. For complex systems, the number of independent reactions and their nature have to be determined systematically. The effect of external factors on chemical equilibria is analyzed and illustrated. The formalism necessary to study ideal and real solutions is provided. The various standard states in use and the corresponding activity coefficients are clearly defined. The statistical aspect of thermodynamics is best understood once students are familiar with the rest of the book and, for this reason, is treated in the last chapter.

In volume 1, the tools necessary to study and understand systems in which chemical reactions can take place are developed. The variables of reaction are the keys to this understanding. Criteria for chemical equilibrium are established. It is shown how chemical reactions can provide work as, for example, in batteries. For complex systems, the number of independent reactions and their nature have to be determined systematically. The effect of external factors on chemical equilibria is analyzed and illustrated. The formalism necessary to study ideal and real solutions is provided. The various standard states in use and the corresponding activity coefficients are clearly defined.

Both volumes comply with the latest IUPAC recommendations for symbols. Most of the specific mathematical tools are presented either directly in the text if they are used mostly in one chapter, while others are included in an appendix. A primarily phenomenological approach has been selected to keep chemical thermodynamics easily accessible to beginners. Intermediate steps in the derivations have been kept to enhance the clarity of the presentation. A large number of problems, most of them original, all with complete solutions, are provided. They give this textbook a great pedagogical value. This book is primarily destined to students, graduate students and practicing scientists in the fields of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Material Sciences.