Theoretical Solid State Physics: Perfect Lattices in Equilibrium (Perfect Lattices in Equilibrium)

Rating:
Summary: A superb treatise for the theoretical physicist.
Review: This book is indeed the 2nd volume of Theoretical Solid State Physics: Perfect Lattices in Equilibrium. As the subtitle specifies, this 2nd vol. refers to non-equilibrium and disordered systems. It is very complete. About the first 100 pages are dedicated to transport theory, Boltzmann equations and relations to density-matrix approach. Other long chapters are about optical properties and superconductivity; about 50 pages are dedicated to excitations; about 200 pages to the defects of solids. I particularly like this book because the authors make often use of self-consistent methods, like Thomas-Fermi one. The unique pity is that the system of units used in each section is not always clear. No mentions also of the most recent nanostructure objects and atomic-force microscopy. I nonetheless highly recommend it, especially to persons who yet have a knowledge of quantum mechanics. For a good and simpler introduction to solid state physics Kittel's book is probably better; about transport theory I'd recommend also the book by Ashcroft and Mermin. These three, I think, are a really must have.