Nonlinear Dynamics Near and Far from Equilibrium

This text gives a detailed account of various techniques used in the study of the dynamics of continuous systems, both near as well as far from equilibrium. Analytic methods covered include diagrammatic perturbation theory, various forms of the renormalization group, and self--consistent mode coupling theory. Chapters that form the core of the book gives a detailed description of dynamic critical phenomena near a second--order phase transition, phase ordering dynamics, surface growth, and turbulence. Applications deal with transport properties in a wide variety of systems (fluids, magnetic systems, super fluids, for example).

The book is unique in covering a number of topics that are not found in standard texts. The perturbation theory for continuous nonlinear systems is discussed in depth, and the reader is introduced to techniques, which can be applied to problems that range from near--equilibrium dynamics to the case of fully-developed turbulence. The book will be of great use to post-graduate students and researchers in nonlinear dynamics as well as in nonequilibrium statistical physics.

Reviews

"The book should be useful to physics graduates and research workers who wish to find a comprehensive introduction to applied statistical mechanics, with detailed analytic results when available."

--Zentralblatt MATH

"This book gives an excellent introduction to the field-theoretic approach to equilibrium and non-equilibrium phenomena. … The book will certainly be very interesting and helpful for young researchers and graduate students. More advanced readers may find the book useful as an updated handbook that brings further insight into detailed renormalization group calculations with a variety of applications to equilibrium and non-equilibrium condensed matter problems."

--Mathematical Reviews

Contents

1. Introduction
2. Models of Dynamics
3. The Renormalization Group
4. Mode Coupling Theories
5.Critical Dynamics in Fluids
6. Systems Far from Equilibrium
7. Surface Growth
8. Turbulence
9. Polymers
A Functional Integration
A.1 Gaussian Theory
B Field Theoretic RG