The Mechanical Universe: Introduction to Mechanics and Heat
Cambridge University Press, 6/12/2008
EAN 9780521715928, ISBN10: 052171592X
Paperback, 604 pages, 25.4 x 20.3 x 3.1 cm
Language: English
This important textbook is based on, though independent of, an educational TV series The Mechanical Universe broadcast on public television in the United States. Its aim is to guide students and general readers to an understanding of how the physical world works; physics is presented as a human endeavour, with historical development forming a thread throughout the text. The prerequisites are minimal, only basic algebra and trigonometry since the necessary calculus is developed in the text, with physics providing the motivation. New concepts are introduced at the natural, logical point with many historical references to place physics in a social perspective. Many topics from twentieth-century physics are included, for example energy, low temperature physics, relativity and black holes. The book is attractively and profusely illustrated and will be welcomed by students and also by general readers for whom this will be a stimulating alternative to other, less-thorough treatments.
Preface
1. Introduction to the mechanical universe
2. The law of falling bodies
3. Derivatives
4. Inertia
5. Vectors
6. Newton's law
7. Integration
8. The apple and the moon
9. Moving in circles
10. Forces
11. Gravity, electricity, and magnetism
12. The Milliken oil-drop experiment
13. The law of conservation of energy
14. Energy and stability
15. Temperature and the gas laws
16. The engine of nature
17. Entropy
18. The quest for low temperatures
19. The conservation of momentum
20. Harmonic motion
21. Resonance
22. Coupled oscillators and waves
23. Angular momentum
24. Gyroscopes
25. Kepler's laws and the conic sections
26. Solving the Kepler problem
27. Energy and eccentricity
28. Navigating in space
29. Loose ends and black holes
30. The harmony of the spheres
an overview of the mechanical universe
Appendix A. The international system of units
Appendix B. Conversion factors
Appendix C. Formulas from algebra, geometry, and trigonometry
Appendix D. Astronomical data
Appendix E. Physical constants
Selected bibliography
Index.