Customer Reviews

Molecular Driving Forces: Statistical Thermodynamics in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Nanoscience

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book is very easy to understand and has plenty of examples imbedded within the text. Perfect for upper division physical chemistry classes. I bought this specifically for a class but found that I enjoyed reading it. Dill (the author) lays out the facts of physical chemistry almost like a story that is fascinating to read.

Dill and Bromberg's effort is extraordinary. I don't think there are other text books out there that explain complex matters in such a rigorous but accessible way. I would recommend this book to anyone who's taking an undergrad or grad course in thermodynamics, statistical thermodynamics or anything remotely similar, as this book will really enlight you. It may happen because of the main text, the examples or the exercises, but it will happen.
I've had the chance to read both the first and second edition. Information has been reorganized a little bit and the new chapters are great. Go get this book.

The textbook did get a little bit wordy/muddled up at most points, but gave a lot of information. The practice questions were really hard to find relevant to what was in the actual chapter. Also, it did go through most formula really in-depth, but it was hard to figure out the finished product.

Grad student taking an advanced physical chemistry course that uses this book.
This book is pretty dull as a stand-alone. Answer manual is sold to professors only, so you need to count on your professor for solutions (which I find to be a tremendous help), but that's a real case-by-case basis. The content is decently written, but the questions are worded awkwardly, and sometimes it's not clear what is even being asked.