ABSTRACT
As Statistical Mechanics is formulated by using certain concepts of probability theory, it is imperative that students acquire certain basic knowledge of this theory. There exist excellent texts on probability theory, like the ones by Feller and by Kai Lai Chung. Another highly recommended monograph is the one by H. Haken on “Synergetics” (details are given in the reference). Probability theory in itself is a vast subject and can be difficult to plow through, but we for now require only certain elementary knowledge to understand the formulation of Statistical Mechanics. Also, many functions and properties central to Statistical Mechanics, like pair distribution functions, originate from probability theory, where they are known as joint probability and/or conditional probability distribution functions of two random variables. The purpose of this chapter is to place Statistical Mechanics in the context of probability theory that helps in understanding development of Statistical Mechanics at a deeper level.
