This book explores new principles of Self-Initiating Volume Discharge for creating high-energy non-chain HF(DF) lasers, as well as the creation of highly efficient lasers with output energy and radiation power in the spectral region of 2.6-5 m. Today, sources of high-power lasing in this spectral region are in demand in various fields of science and technology including remote sensing of the atmosphere, medicine, biological imaging, precision machining and other special applications. These applications require efficient laser sources with high pulse energy, pulsed and average power, which makes the development of physical fundamentals of high-power laser creation and laser complexes of crucial importance. High-Energy Ecologically Safe HF/DF Lasers: Physics of Self-Initiated Volume Discharge-Based HF/DF Lasers examines the conditions of formation of SSVD, gas composition and the mode of energy input into the gas on the efficiency and radiation energy of non-chain HF(DF) lasers. Key Features: Shares research results on SSVD in mixtures of non-chain HF(DF) lasers Studies the stability and dynamics of the development of SSVD Discusses the effect of the gas composition and geometry of the discharge gap (DG) on its characteristics Proposes recommendations for gas composition and for the method of obtaining SSVD in non-chain HF(DF) lasers Develops simple and reliable wide-aperture non-chain HF(DF) lasers and investigates their characteristics Investigates the possibilities of expanding the lasing spectrum of non-chain HF(DF) lasers

Ultra-high resolution holograms are now finding commercial and industrial applications in such areas as holographic maps, 3D medical imaging, and consumer devices. Ultra-Realistic Imaging: Advanced Techniques in Analogue and Digital Colour Holography brings together a comprehensive discussion of key methods that enable holography to be used as a technique of ultra-realistic imaging.

After a historical review of progress in holography, the book:

• Discusses CW recording lasers, pulsed holography lasers, and reviews optical designs for many of the principal laser types with emphasis on attaining the parameters necessary for digital and analogue holography
• Gives a full review of current photosensitive materials for colour holography
• Covers modern methods of analogue holography and digital holographic printing
• Introduces mathematical and geometrical notation for horizontal parallax-only holograms and practical computational algorithms for the full-parallax case
• Reviews systems and the image processing algorithms required to convert the raw image data to the format required by digital printers
• Develops the physical theory of the holographic grating and the hologram
• Provides an up-to-date review of illumination sources, including LED and laser diode sources

Written by leaders in dynamic holography, this handbook provides complete coverage of real-time colour holographic processes, including applications. The book covers not only the optics and theory behind such holographic systems, but also laser technologies, recording devices, data acquisition and processing techniques, materials for reproduction, and current and developing applications.

Sensors and Their Applications XII discusses novel research in the areas of sensors and transducers and provides insight into new and topical applications of this technology. It covers the underlying physics, fabrication technologies, and commercial applications of sensors. Some of the topics discussed include optical sensing, sensing materials, nondestructive monitoring, imaging sensors, system networks, and water quality monitoring.

This book summarizes the fundamental and established methods for the synthesis of nanoparticles, providing readers with an organized and comprehensive insight into the field of nanoparticle technology. In addition to exploring the characterization and applications of nanoparticles, it also focuses on the recently explored corona discharge micromachining - Electrical Discharge Micromachining (EDMM) - method to synthesize inorganic nanoparticles. In the synthesis of nanoparticles, organic materials often play an indispensable role, such as providing stabilizers in the form of capping agents. This book will be of interest to advanced undergraduate and graduate students studying physics and engineering, as well as professionals and academics looking for an introduction to the nature and foundations of nanoparticle synthesis. Features: Provides diagnostic tools for the characterization of nanoparticles Explores the cutting-edge EDMM method for the synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles Discusses possible methods to overcome agglomeration of nanoparticles and achieve stable dispersion, in addition to examining the application suitability of synthesized nanoparticles

This book provides a survey of the latest research and developments in plasma technology. In an easy and comprehensive manner, it explores what plasma is and the technologies utilized to produce plasma. It then investigates the main applications and their benefits. Different from other books on the topic that focus on specific aspects of plasma technology, the intention is to provide an introduction to all aspects related to plasma technologies. This book will be an ideal resource for graduate students studying plasma technologies, in addition to researchers in physics, engineering, and materials science. Features Accessible and easy to understand Provides simple yet exhaustive explanations of the foundations Explores the latest technologies and is filled with practical applications and case studies

Standard approaches to understanding swarms rely on inspiration from biology and are generally covered by the term "biomimetics". This book focuses on a different, complementary inspiration, namely physics. The editors have introduced the term 'physicomimetics' to refer to physics-based swarm approaches, which offer two advantages. First, they capture the notion that "nature is lazy', meaning that physics-based systems always perform the minimal amount of work necessary, which is an especially important advantage in swarm robotics. Second, physics is the most predictive science, and can reduce complex systems to simple concepts and equations that codify emergent behavior and help us to design and understand swarms. The editors consolidated over a decade of work on swarm intelligence and swarm robotics, organizing the book into 19 chapters as follows. Part I introduces the concept of swarms and offers the reader a physics tutorial; Part II deals with applications of physicomimetics, in order of increased complexity; Part III examines the hardware requirements of the presented algorithms and demonstrates real robot implementations; Part IV demonstrates how the theory can be used to design swarms from first principles and provides a novel algorithm that handles changing environments; finally, Part V shows that physicomimetics can be used for function optimization, moving the reader from issues of swarm robotics to swarm intelligence. The text is supported with a downloadable package containing simulation code and videos of working robots. This book is suitable for talented high school and undergraduate students, as well as researchers and graduate students in the areas of artificial intelligence and robotics.

Advances in technology often rely on a world of photons as the basic units of light. Increasingly one reads of photons as essential to enterprises in Photonics and Quantum Technology, with career and investment opportunities. Notions of photons have evolved from the energy-packet crowds of Planck and Einstein, the later field modes of Dirac, the seeming conflict of wave and particle photons, to the ubiquitous laser photons of today. Readers who take interest in contemporary technology will benefit from learning what photons are now considered to be, and how our views of photons have changed — in learning about the various operational definitions that have been used for photons and their association with a variety of quantum-state manipulations that include Quantum Information, astronomical sources and crowds of photons, the boxed fields of Cavity Quantum Electrodynamics and single photons on demand, the photons of Feynman and Glauber, and the photon constituents of the Standard Model of Particle Physics. The narrative points to contemporary photons as causers of change to atoms, as carriers of messages, and as subject to controllable creation and alteration — a considerable diversity of photons, not just one kind. Our Changing Views of Photons: A Tutorial Memoir presents those general topics as a memoir of the author's involvement with physics and the photons of theoretical Quantum Optics, written conversationally for readers with no assumed prior exposure to science. It offers lay readers a glimpse of scientific discovery — of how ideas become practical, as a small scientific community reconsiders its assumptions and offers the theoretical ideas that are then developed, revised, and adopted into technology for daily use. For readers who want a more detailed understanding of the theory, three substantial appendices provide tutorials that, assuming no prior familiarity, proceed from a very elementary start to basics of discrete states and abstract vector spaces; Lie groups; notions of quantum theory and the Schrödinger equation for quantum-state manipulation; Maxwell's equations for electromagnetism, with wave modes that become photons, possibly exhibiting quantum entanglement; and the coupling of atoms and fields to create quasiparticles. The appendices can be seen as a companion to traditional textbooks on Quantum Optics.

This new edition of Andrew Stott s "Comedy" builds on themes presented in the first edition such as focusing on the significance of comic 'events' through study of various theoretical methodologies, including deconstruction, psychoanalysis and gender theory, and provides case studies of a number of themes, ranging from the drag act to the simplicity of slipping on a banana skin. This new edition features:

• updates to reflect new research the field
• new chapters on Women in Comedy and Race and Ethnicity
• a broader range of literary and cultural examples.

Written in a clear and accessible style, this book is ideal introduction to comedy for students studying literature and culture. "

The pendulum is a unique physical system which exhibits remarkably varied and complex behavior under many different conditions. It is also a system which, in its many manifestations, has left a significant imprint on human thought and culture. Using graphs, figures, and narrative to explain scientific ideas and models, Gregory Baker gives a lucid account of the physics of the pendulum, showing the reader how the context of the pendulum progresses over four centuries from that of a simple system of classical physics, to that of a chaotic system, and eventually to that of a modern quantum system. He also describes its fascinating presence in cultural history, from its role in timekeeping and measurements of the earth to its importance as a literary symbol of doom. Seven 'tales', detailing different important facets of the pendulum, show the exciting diversity of the science of the pendulum, and its untold significance in the history of human intellectual development.

This book presents some of the methods used in the theory of amorphous magnetism, from a single standpoint that amorphous magnets have a topologically disordered structure of the type given by the dense random packing of hard spheres.The primary aim is to show systematically the present theoretical apparatus in a form which would allow the reader to use it in investigations of still unsolved problems. Even within these limits, the theory of amorphous magnetism is now a very large subject. This book is not designed to review all the developments in this rapidly developing area. It is primarily intended for the novice in this field, rather than the specialist.

An Introduction to Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics returns with a second edition which includes new chapters, further explorations, and updated information into the study of statistical mechanics and thermal dynamics. The first part of the book derives the entropy of the classical ideal gas, using only classical statistical mechanics and an analysis of multiple systems first suggested by Boltzmann. The properties of the entropy are then expressed as "postulates" of thermodynamics in the second part of the book. From these postulates, the formal structure of thermodynamics is developed. The third part of the book introduces the canonical and grand canonical ensembles, which are shown to facilitate calculations for many model systems. An explanation of irreversible phenomena that is consistent with time-reversal invariance in a closed system is presented. The fourth part of the book is devoted to quantum statistical mechanics, including black-body radiation, the harmonic solid, Bose-Einstein and Fermi-Dirac statistics, and an introduction to band theory, including metals, insulators, and semiconductors. The final chapter gives a brief introduction to the theory of phase transitions. Throughout the book, there is a strong emphasis on computational methods to make abstract concepts more concrete.

The role of thermodynamics in modern physics is not just to provide an approximate treatment of large thermal systems, but, more importantly, to provide an organising set of ideas. Thermodynamics: A complete undergraduate course presents thermodynamics as a self-contained and elegant set of ideas and methods. It unfolds thermodynamics for undergraduate students of physics, chemistry or engineering, beginning at first year level. The book introduces the necessary mathematical methods, assuming almost no prior knowledge, and explains concepts such as entropy and free energy at length, with many examples. This book aims to convey the style and power of thermodynamic reasoning, along with applications such as Joule-Kelvin expansion, the gas turbine, magnetic cooling, solids at high pressure, chemical equilibrium, radiative heat exchange and global warming, to name a few. It mentions but does not pursue statistical mechanics, in order to keep the logic clear.

Sensor technologies have experienced dramatic growth in recent years, making a significant impact on national security, health care, environmental improvement, energy management, food safety, construction monitoring, manufacturing and process control, and more. However, education on sensor technologies has not kept pace with this rapid development ... until now. Resistive, Capacitive, Inductive, and Magnetic Sensor Technologies examines existing, new, and novel sensor technologies and-through real-world examples, sample problems, and practical exercises-illustrates how the related science and engineering principles can be applied across multiple disciplines, offering greater insight into various sensors' operating mechanisms and practical functions. The book assists readers in understanding resistive, capacitive, inductive, and magnetic (RCIM) sensors, as well as sensors with similar design concepts, characteristics, and circuitry. Resistive, Capacitive, Inductive, and Magnetic Sensor Technologies is a complete and comprehensive overview of RCIM sensing technologies. It takes a unique approach in describing a broad range of sensing technologies and their diverse applications by first reviewing the necessary physics, and then explaining the sensors' intrinsic mechanisms, distinctive designs, materials and manufacturing methods, associated noise types, signal conditioning circuitry, and practical applications. The text not only covers silicon and metallic sensors but also those made of modern and specialized materials such as ceramics, polymers, and organic substances. It provides cutting-edge information useful to students, researchers, scientists, and practicing professionals involved in the design and application of sensor-based products in fields such as biomedical engineering, mechatronics, robotics, aerospace, and beyond.

Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are already used in traffic signals, signage lighting, and automotive applications. However, its ultimate goal is to replace traditional illumination through LED lamps since LED lighting significantly reduces energy consumption and cuts down on carbon-dioxide emission. Despite dramatic advances in LED technologies (e.g., growth, doping and processing technologies), however, there remain critical issues for further improvements yet to be achieved for the realization of solid-state lighting. This book aims to provide the readers with some contemporary LED issues, which have not been comprehensively discussed in the published books and, on which the performance of LEDs is seriously dependent. For example, most importantly, there must be a breakthrough in the growth of high-quality nitride semiconductor epitaxial layers with a low density of dislocations, in particular, in the growth of Al-rich and and In-rich GaN-based semiconductors. The materials quality is directly dependent on the substrates used, such as sapphire, Si, etc. In addition, efficiency droop, growth on different orientations and polarization are also important. Chip processing and packaging technologies are key issues. This book presents a comprehensive review of contemporary LED issues. Given the interest and importance of future research in nitride semiconducting materials and solid state lighting applications, the contents are very timely. The book is composed of chapters written by leading researchers in III-nitride semiconducting materials and device technology. This book will be of interest to scientists and engineers working on LEDs for lighting applications. Postgraduate researchers working on LEDs will also benefit from the issues this book provides.

Why do elephants have sturdier thigh bones than humans? Why can't ostriches fly? How do bacteria swim through fluids? With each chapter structured around relevant biological case studies and examples, this engaging, full-colour book introduces fundamental physical concepts essential in the study of biological phenomena. Optics is introduced within the context of butterfly wing colouration, electricity is explained through the propagation of nerve signals, and accelerated motion is conveniently illustrated using the example of the jumping armadillo. Other key physical concepts covered include waves, mechanical forces, thermodynamics and magnetism, and important biological techniques are also discussed within this context, such as gel electrophoresis and fluorescence microscopy. A detailed appendix provides further discussion of the mathematical concepts utilised within the book, and numerous exercises and quizzes allow readers to test their understanding of key concepts. This book is invaluable to students aiming to improve their quantitative and analytical skills and understand the deeper nature of biological phenomena.

This book provides an introduction to quantum cascade lasers, including the basic underlying models used to describe the device. It aims at giving a synthetic view of the topic including the aspects of the physics, the technology, and the use of the device. It should also provide a guide for the application engineer to use this device in systems. The book is based on lecture notes of a class given for Masters and beginning PhD students. The idea is to provide an introduction to the new and exciting developments that intersubband transitions have brought to the use of the mid-infrared and terahertz region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The book provides an introductory part to each topic so that it can be used in a self-contained way, while references to the literature will allow deeper studies for further research.

High Energy Electron Diffraction and Microscopy provides a comprehensive introduction to high energy electron diffraction and elastic and inelastic scattering of high energy electrons, with particular emphasis on applications to modern electron microscopy. Starting from a survey of fundamental phenomena, the authors introduce the most important concepts underlying modern understanding of high energy electron diffraction. Dynamical diffraction in transmission (THEED) and reflection (RHEED) geometries is treated using a general matrix theory, where computer programs and worked examples are provided to illustrate the concepts and to familiarize the reader with practical applications. Diffuse and inelastic scattering and coherence effects are treated comprehensively both as a perturbation of elastic scattering and within the general multiple scattering quantum mechanical framework of the density matrix method. Among the highlights are the treatment of resonance diffraction of electrons, HOLZ diffraction, the formation of Kikuchi bands and lines and ring patterns, and application of diffraction to monitoring of growing surfaces. Useful practical data are summarised in tables including those of electron scattering factors for all the neutral atoms and many ions, and the temperature dependent Debye-Waller factors given for over 100 elemental crystals and compounds.

This classic text, first published in 1972, is designed for graduate physics courses in statistical mechanics. The second edition, published in 1996, incorporated three comprehensive chapters on phase transitions and critical phenomena.

This third edition includes new sections on Bose-Einstein condensation and degenerate Fermi behavior of ultracold atomic gases, and two new chapters on computer simulation methods and the thermodynamics of the early universe. We have also added new sections on chemical and phase equilibrium, and expanded our discussions of correlations and scattering, quantized fields, finite-size effects and the fluctuation-dissipation theorem. We hope this new edition will continue to provide new generations of students with a solid training in the methods of statistical physics.

-Bose-Einstein condensation in atomic gases -Thermodynamics of the early universe -Computer simulations: Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics -Correlation functions and scattering -Fluctuation-dissipation theorem and the dynamical structure factor -Chemical equilibrium -Exact solution of the two-dimensional Ising model for finite systems -Degenerate atomic Fermi gases -Exact solutions of one-dimensional fluid models -Interactions in ultracold Bose and Fermi gases -Brownian motion of anisotropic particles and harmonic oscillators"

Covers the basic principles and theories of engineering physics and offers a balance between theoretical concepts and their applications. It is designed as a textbook for an introductory course in engineering physics. Beginning with a comprehensive discussion on oscillations and waves with applications in the field of mechanical and electrical engineering, it goes on to explain the basic concepts such as Huygen's principle, Fresnel's biprism, Fraunhofer diffraction and polarization. Emphasis has been given to an understanding of the basic concepts and their applications to a number of engineering problems. Each topic has been discussed in detail, both conceptually and mathematically. Pedagogical features including solved problems, unsolved exercised and multiple choice questions are interspersed throughout the book. This will help undergraduate students of engineering acquire skills for solving difficult problems in quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, nanoscience, energy systems and other engineering disciplines.

This textbook is a follow-up to the volume Principles of Engineering Physics 1 and aims for an introductory course in engineering physics. It provides a balance between theoretical concepts and their applications. Fundamental concepts of crystal structure including lattice directions and planes, atomic packing factor, diffraction by crystal, reciprocal lattics and intensity of diffracted beam are extensively discussed in the book. The book also covers topics related to superconductivity, optoelectronic devices, dielectric materials, semiconductors, electron theory of solids and energy bands in solids. The text is written in a logical and coherent manner for easy understanding by students. Emphasis has been given to an understanding of the basic concepts and their applications to a number of engineering problems. Each topic is discussed in detail both conceptually and mathematically, so that students will not face comprehension difficulties. Derivations and solved problems are provided in a step-by-step approach.

The book provides an overview of the fascinating spectrum of semiconductor physics, devices and applications, presented from a historical perspective. It covers the development of the subject from its inception in the early nineteenth century to the recent millennium. Written in a lively, informal style, it emphasizes the interaction between pure scientific push and commercial pull, on the one hand, and between basic physics, materials, and devices, on the other. It also sets the various device developments in the context of systems requirements and explains how such developments met wide-ranging consumer demands. It is written so as to appeal to students at all levels in physics, electrical engineering, and materials science, to teachers, lecturers, and professionals working in the field, as well as to a non-specialist scientific readership.