Collapse of Metastability

This insightful book explores the dynamics of bistable states and first-order phase transitions, making it a valuable resource for those interested in metastability.

To gain a deeper understanding of natural phenomena, it is essential to explore not just the properties of stationary states, but also their temporal changes. This exploration involves examining the dynamics between bistable states. The book Collapse of Metastability reviews the mechanics of first-order phase transitions, delving into the relaxation and collapse of metastable states from various perspectives. Key methodologies discussed include Kramers' approach to the lifetime of metastability, Langer’s analysis of singularities, and the effects of thermal fluctuations as studied by Néel and Brown. Additionally, the eigenvalue structures of the transfer-matrix in relation to phase transitions are explored in detail.

Furthermore, Collapse of Metastability addresses the mechanics of metastability within quantum systems, focusing on the eigenvalue problems of the Hamiltonian and Liouvillian for dynamical processes. The book also investigates the connections between quantum tunneling processes and the concept of metastability, offering valuable insights into this intricate relationship. It concludes with a review of the coercivity of magnets made up of an ensemble of grains, providing a comprehensive overview of the subject.

This book serves as an excellent primer for newcomers to the field, offering a modern perspective on first-order phase transitions. Its thorough content provides overviews of related topics, enabling readers to swiftly familiarize themselves with recent developments and advancements in this area of study.