Soft Matter, Volume 1

Soft Matter encompasses a wide range of systems of varying components,including synthetic and biological polymers, colloids, and amphiphiles. The distinguishing features of these systems is their characteristic size, which is much larger than that of their atomic counterparts, and their characteristic energy, which is much smaller. Because of their ability to assemble themselves into complex structures, they form the major components of biological systems and technological applications. "Soft matter" is a unique series of books that strongly stresses the interdisciplinary character of this thriving field of research. The first volume offers a detailed description of the physical aspects of polymers, such as polymer dynamics in melts, and complex structure and phase behavior of mixtures of homopolymers with block copolymers. With contributions from highly acclaimed experts, it differs from the very specialized or proceedings-type books currently available. Aimed at both graduates and researchers, the book is an introduction to soft matter physics as well as a concise reference for those already working in this field.