Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics of Macromolecular Systems

Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics of Macromolecular Systems

by Michael Bachmann (Author)

Synopsis

The structural mechanics of proteins that fold into functional shapes, polymers that aggregate and form clusters, and organic macromolecules that bind to inorganic matter can only be understood through statistical physics and thermodynamics. This book reviews the statistical mechanics concepts and tools necessary for the study of structure formation processes in macromolecular systems that are essentially influenced by finite-size and surface effects. Readers are introduced to molecular modeling approaches, advanced Monte Carlo simulation techniques, and systematic statistical analyses of numerical data. Applications to folding, aggregation, and substrate adsorption processes of polymers and proteins are discussed in great detail. Particular emphasis is placed on the reduction of complexity by coarse-grained modeling, which allows for the efficient, systematic investigation of structural phases and transitions. Providing insight into modern research at this interface between physics, chemistry, biology, and nanotechnology, this book is an excellent reference for graduate students and researchers.

$76.52

Quantity

20+ in stock

More Information

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 354
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 24 Apr 2014

ISBN 10: 1107014476
ISBN 13: 9781107014473
Book Overview: Reviewing statistical mechanics concepts for analysis of macromolecular structure formation processes, for graduate students and researchers in physics and biology.

Media Reviews
'The clarity of exposition supports the author's goal with respect to his view. In fact, as stated in the preface and outline of his work, he wished to overcome the frustration for the present contradicting and inconclusive literature in this field. The richness of specific examples also supports the book scope. The approach to modelling is also clearly described. ... this book could be suitable also for non-experts in the field, due to its precise exposition of the subjects. I would recommend this book to people from different scientific backgrounds: starting from physics to biology, biochemistry and many others. The work by Bachmann should also be considered as ... an acquisition, whose value is long-lasting. Finally, the exhaustive treatment contained in [this book] might also constitute a good support for defining future research paths and projects, which have now a wide spectrum of applications.' Marco Casazza, Contemporary Physics
'The clarity of exposition supports the author's goal with respect to his view. In fact, as stated in the preface and outline of his work, he wished to overcome the frustration for the present contradicting and inconclusive literature in this field. The richness of specific examples also supports the book scope. The approach to modelling is also clearly described. ... this book could be suitable also for non-experts in the field, due to its precise exposition of the subjects. I would recommend this book to people from different scientific backgrounds: starting from physics to biology, biochemistry and many others. The work by Bachmann should also be considered as ... an acquisition, whose value is long-lasting. Finally, the exhaustive treatment contained in [this book] might also constitute a good support for defining future research paths and projects, which have now a wide spectrum of applications.' Marco Casazza, Contemporary Physics
Author Bio
Michael Bachmann is Associate Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Georgia. His major fields of interest include theoretical physics, computational physics, statistical physics, biophysics, and chemical physics.