This graduate-level text reviews the field of critical phenomena, including the use of neutron scattering techniques as an aid in their study. The book introduces the principles of magnetic systems and their critical dynamics, outlining the experimental and theoretical methods that have been used to understand the scattering effect. Measurements are examined for the dynamics and statics of one-, two-, and three-dimensional systems. Multicritical effects, critical phase transitions in magnetic metals, dilution, percolation, and random-field effects are also discussed in the light of neutron scattering measurements.

Malcolm F. Collins' profile page

Malcolm F. Collins is at McMaster University.

"All those involved with the neutron as their research tool must welcome the new Oxford series on neutron scattering from condensed matter in which Malcolm Collins' book is the fourth volume. This excellent contribution will, however, appeal to a much wider readership than just those concerned with neutron scattering or magnetism....The author is to be congratulated on his achievement in presenting a difficult subject in such a compact and coherent manner." --Physics World

"It [the book] begins with an introduction to the theory of critical phenomena. . . . The second part of the book develops the parts of the theory of neutron scattering relevant to critical phenomena. . . . Finally, measurements on a number of key magnetic systems are reviewed to illustrate the current level of understanding. . . . the book presents a valuable brief overview of a large and complex subject. . ." -- Chemistry in Britain

"Collins succeeds admirably in reviewing the field. His idea to restrict the book only to neutron studies of magnetic systems lends a good focus to the text. . . . . The book is a useful starting point for anyone interested in critical phenomena and a must for anyone doing neutron scattering . . . . there is ample use of figures, and the list of references is comprehensive." --Physics Today

"In nine masterfully brief chapters the author reviews the theory of critical phenomena; he turns then to the relevant aspects of neutron scattering theory (four chapters) and to review/interpretation of the experimental data (six chapters). Elegantly produced, with many figures and detailed references. A splendid accomplishment, certain to be of interest to researchers active in this vital field." --SciTech News