Thermodynamics in Mineral Sciences

The book presents the fundamental principles of thermodynamics for geosciences. It is based on courses for Physical Chemistry of Minerals and theoretical Petrology, given by the author for geosciences students over a number of years. Thermodynamic applications to real problems are illustrated through numerous examples taken from the mineralogical literature. In this way, the more abstract nature of thermodynamics is more easily understood. The reader learns how to apply the methods of this discipline to concrete mineralogical and petrologic problems. Although the book is written primarily for graduate students, it is also useful for advanced scientists working in the field of mineralogy, petrology and geology. It may also be interesting for ceramists and material scientists.