Using the path integral approach to equilibrium statistical physics the
effect of dissipation on Landau diamagnetism is calculated. The calculation
clarifies the essential role of the boundary of the container in which the
electrons move. Further, the derived result for diamagnetization also matches
with the expression obtained from a time-dependent quantum Langevin equation in
the asymptotic limit, provided a certain order is maintained in taking limits.
This identification then unifies equilibrium and nonequilibrium statistical
physics for a phenomenon like diamagnetism, which is inherently quantum and
strongly dependent on boundary effects.Comment: 4 pages, no figure