A graduate-level entrée to the application of renormalization group theory to condensed matter physics

Renormalization group ideas have had a major impact on condensed matter physics for more than a half century. This book develops the theory and illustrates the broad applicability of the renormalization group to major problems in condensed matter physics. Based on course materials developed and class-tested by the authors at Harvard University, the book will be especially useful for students, as well as researchers in condensed matter physics, soft matter physics, biophysics, and statistical physics. After reviewing Ising models, lattice gases, and critical point phenomena, the book covers quantum critical phenomena; the statistical mechanics of linear polymer chains; fluctuating sheet polymers; the dynamics associated with the Navier-Stokes equations and simplified models of randomly stirred fluids; the properties of “active matter”; and more.

• Explores the broad applicability of renormalization groups to condensed matter
• Covers critical phenomena in different dimensions, quantum critical points, polymer physics and flexural phonons in free-standing graphene, nonequilibrium fluid dynamics, and more
• Provides a modern, physics-centered entrée, suitable for both course use and self-study
• Features material ideal for graduate-level students as well as researchers
• Includes exercises throughout
• Offers a solutions manual for exercises (available only to instructors)

David R. Nelson is professor of physics and applied physics and the Arthur K. Solomon Professor of Biophysics at Harvard University. Grace H. Zhang obtained her PhD in theoretical condensed matter physics from Harvard University.