Stochastic thermodynamics is a well-defined subfield of statistical physics that aims to interpret thermodynamic concepts for systems ranging in size from a few to hundreds of nanometers, the behavior of which is inherently random due to thermal fluctuations. This growing field therefore describes the nonequilibrium dynamics of small systems, such as artificial nanodevices and biological molecular machines, which are of increasing scientific and technological relevance.
This textbook provides an up-to-date pedagogical introduction to stochastic thermodynamics, guiding readers from basic concepts in statistical physics, probability theory, and thermodynamics to the most recent developments in the field. Gradually building up to more advanced material, the authors consistently prioritize simplicity and clarity over exhaustiveness and focus on the development of readers’ physical insight over mathematical formalism. This approach allows the reader to grow as the book proceeds, helping interested young scientists to enter the field with less effort and to contribute to its ongoing vibrant development. Chapters provide exercises to complement and reinforce learning.
Appropriate for graduate students in physics and biophysics, as well as researchers, Stochastic Thermodynamics serves as an excellent initiation to this rapidly evolving field.
- Emphasizes a pedagogical approach to the subject
- Highlights connections with the thermodynamics of information
- Pays special attention to molecular biophysics applications
- Privileges physical intuition over mathematical formalism
- Solutions manual available on request for instructors adopting the book in a course
Luca Peliti is deputy director of the Santa Marinella Research Institute and professor emeritus of statistical mechanics at the University of Naples Federico II. He is the author of Statistical Mechanics in a Nutshell (Princeton). Simone Pigolotti is associate professor at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, where he leads the Biological Complexity Unit.
"Stochastic thermodynamics has grown into one of the most vivid and rapidly growing areas of modern research. Rather surprisingly, no introductory textbook is available to date. This important book is direly needed, and I expect it to become a standard reference for the field."—Sebastian Deffner, University of Maryland, Baltimore County
"This book offers a summary of the main developments in stochastic thermodynamics, and is a compact information source for newcomers to the field. The scholarship is sound and the authors know their stuff. With an integrated perspective, Stochastic Thermodynamics is a pleasure to read."—Ian Ford, University College London
"An elegant pedagogical introduction to the theory of stochastic thermodynamics, this book covers a wide range of topics, including biophysical examples, and pays attention to experimental applications of the theoretical framework."—Takahiro Sagawa, University of Tokyo
"An important recent development in statistical physics has been the discovery of general fluctuation relations pertaining to mesoscopic systems, and their embedding into a broader stochastic thermodynamics. Offering a timely and much-needed introduction to this essential topic, this excellent text looks at the fundamental theory and crucial experimental applications."—Uwe C. Täuber, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech)
"By applying ideas and techniques from statistical mechanics, stochastic dynamics, and information theory, Peliti and Pigolotti provide a solid exposition of stochastic thermodynamics. This book is a significant and timely contribution to the field of thermodynamics that fills a void in the literature on stochastic thermodynamics."—Wassim M. Haddad, Georgia Institute of Technology
