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This book provides an introduction to the geometrical and topological methods that have become essential tools for soft condensed matter physicists. The emphasis is on providing mathematical tools in clear but precise language, focusing on fundamental concepts using real examples to illustrate for readers in vivid, three-dimensional fashion. The motivation is clearly provided using problems from soft condensed matter, from the packing of colloids to liquid crystals and thermal fluctuations of lipid membranes.
List of contents
Introduction. Symmetry and Groups. Geometry of Curves in the Plane. Curves in Space. Geometry of Surfaces. Geometry of Surfaces and Fluid Interfaces. Elasticity and Riemannian Geometry. Topology and Topological Defects. Geometric Frustration. More Advanced Topology and Geometry
About the author
Christian Santangelo is an associate professor of physics at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He obtained is B.A. from Cornell University and his Ph.D. from the University of California, Santa Barbara. He spent three years at the University of Pennsylvania before joining the faculty at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. His research is in theoretical condensed matter physics, and is focused on understanding the behavior of soft materials using geometrical methods. He was the recipient of the Glenn Brown Prize in 2004 from the International Liquid Crystal Society and a CAREER award from the National Science Foundation.
Summary
This book provides an introduction to the geometrical and topological methods that have become essential tools for soft condensed matter physicists. The emphasis is on providing mathematical tools in clear but precise language, focusing on fundamental concepts using real examples to illustrate for readers in vivid, three-dimensional fashion. The motivation is clearly provided using problems from soft condensed matter, from the packing of colloids to liquid crystals and thermal fluctuations of lipid membranes.
