This book gives a clear and logical exposition of the basic method of ensembles in Statistical Mechanics as developed by J.W. Gibbs. Beginning with the Liouville theorem, a brief but useful introduction to the classical statistical mechanics is provided. Then the quantum picture is outlined and basic postulate of quantum statistical mechanics are stated. The discussion of the symmetry of wave function and its effect on counting is given in detail. The relation between statistical mechanics and thermodynamics is worked out and the Gibbs paradox is discussed in a lucid way. The concept of entropy is related to the information theory. Various ensembles are constructed and used to derive the Bose-Einstein and Fermi-Dirac ideal gases, topics like liquid He electrons in metals, and white dwarfs are given adequate coverage. Quantum Hall effect, random walk and Fourier analysis of a random fluctuation are devoted sufficient space to make it a useful and fascinating book. The book concludes with a discussion of the sling model and a modern treatment of the critical phenomena. Problems at the end of each chapter widen the area covered and also help to deepen the understanding of the material given. This book is written to introduce the subject to advanced undergraduates in physics and chemistry or to graduates in engineering classes. The present edition contains new material including a chapter on Irreversible Thermodynamics and sections dealing with density matrix and superconductivity.; Dr. Bipin Kumar Agarwal is currently Professor and Head of the Department of Physics and Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of Allahabad. He has delivered lectures at various universities in Europe and the U.S.A. He has long associations with the International Center for Theoretical Physics, where he has been elected Senior Associate Member. As prolific researcher both in theoretical and experimental physics, he has published over 100 papers covering several areas of physics. He is the author of a monograph on X-ray spectroscopy, published by the Springer-Verlag, Heidelberg. He takes great pride in his ability to teach in Hindi at the postgraduate level.; Contents: Basis of Classical Statistical Mechanics Quantum Picture Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics Canonical and Grand Canonical Ensembles Partition Function Ideal Bose-Einstein Gas Ideal Fermi-Dirac Gas Semiconductor Statistics Non-equilibrium States Fluctuations Cooperative Phenomena: Sling Model Critical Phenomena Irreversible Thermodynamis Appendices;

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