This updated second edition features a considerably expanded study of the topology of the phases, including applications to modern problems such as topological defects of nematic liquid crystals and the topological phase transition of a two-dimensional spin system. Along with a complete introductory overview of the theory of phase transitions, this textbook provides students with ample material for deeper study. References include suggestions for more detailed treatments and six appendices supply overviews of the mathematical tools employed in the text.
Carlos F. Tejero has been professor of thermodynamics and statistical physics at the Facultad de Ciencias Fisicas of the Universidad Complutense de Madrid in Spain. As Investigador Principal he has directed various investigations in the field of phases of matter and soft matter.
Both authors have collaborated for more than thirty years.