Quantum Phase Transitions is the first book to describe in detail the fundamental changes that can occur in the macroscopic nature of matter at zero temperature due to small variations in a given external parameter. The subject plays a central role in the study of the electrical and magnetic properties of numerous important solid state materials. The author begins by developing the theory of quantum phase transitions in the simplest possible class of non-disordered, interacting systems - the quantum Ising and rotor models. Particular attention is paid to their non-zero temperature dynamic and transport properties in the vicinity of the quantum critical point. Several other quantum phase transitions of increasing complexity are then discussed and clarified. Throughout, the author interweaves experimental results with presentation of theoretical models, and well over 500 references are included. The book will be of great interest to graduate students and researchers in condensed matter physics.

‘This is a very interesting book on the new topic of quantum phase transitions. The book is clearly written and contains an extensive list of references. There have been excellent review articles in the last few years in this area … However a well written book like this, which starts from the basic material and reviews in a comprehensive way all the recent literature on the subject, is very useful for both the expert and the newcomer who wants to be introduced into this exciting area. The book is a timely contribution to the research literature and is strongly recommended to all researchers in physics and other related areas.’

Dr A. Vourdas Source: Contemporary Physics

'A huge collection of theoretical observations and experimental facts united in this book by the Quantum Phase Transitions concept makes it attractive for reading.'

Source: Zentralblatt für Mathematik und ihre Grenzgebiete Mathematics Abstracts