The Renormalization Group and Condensed Matter Physics - by David R Nelson & Grace H Zhang (Hardcover)

About the Book

"A graduate-level entrâee to the application of renormalization group theory to condensed matter physicsRenormalization group (RG) ideas have had a major impact on condensed matter physics for more than a half century. This book develops the theory and illustrates the broad applicability of the renormalization group to major problems in condensed matter physics. Based on course materials developed and class-tested by the authors at Harvard University, the book will be especially useful for students, as well as researchers in condensed matter physics, soft matter physics, biophysics, and statistical physics. After reviewing Ising models, lattice gases, and critical point phenomena, the book covers quantum critical phenomena; the statistical mechanics of linear polymer chains; fluctuating sheet polymers; the dynamics associated with the Navier-Stokes equations and simplified models of randomly stirred fluids; the properties of "active matter"; and more. Exercises are included throughout.Explores the broad applicability of renormalization groups to condensed matterCovers critical phenomena in different dimensions, quantum critical points, polymer physics and flexural phonons in free-standing graphene, nonequilibrium fluid dynamics, and moreProvides a modern, physics-centered entrâee, suitable for both course use and self-studyFeatures material ideal for for graduate-level students as well as researchersIncludes exercises throughoutOffers a solutions manual for exercises (available only to instructors)"-- Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

A graduate-level entrée to the application of renormalization group theory to condensed matter physics

Renormalization group ideas have had a major impact on condensed matter physics for more than a half century. This book develops the theory and illustrates the broad applicability of the renormalization group to major problems in condensed matter physics. Based on course materials developed and class-tested by the authors at Harvard University, the book will be especially useful for students, as well as researchers in condensed matter physics, soft matter physics, biophysics, and statistical physics. After reviewing Ising models, lattice gases, and critical point phenomena, the book covers quantum critical phenomena; the statistical mechanics of linear polymer chains; fluctuating sheet polymers; the dynamics associated with the Navier-Stokes equations and simplified models of randomly stirred fluids; the properties of "active matter"; and more.

• Explores the broad applicability of renormalization groups to condensed matter
• Covers critical phenomena in different dimensions, quantum critical points, polymer physics and flexural phonons in free-standing graphene, nonequilibrium fluid dynamics, and more
• Provides a modern, physics-centered entrée, suitable for both course use and self-study
• Features material ideal for graduate-level students as well as researchers
• Includes exercises throughout
• Offers a solutions manual for exercises (available only to instructors)

About the Author

David R. Nelson is professor of physics and applied physics and the Arthur K. Solomon Professor of Biophysics at Harvard University. Grace H. Zhang obtained her PhD in theoretical condensed matter physics from Harvard University.