The Language of Physics: A Foundation for University Study - Hardcover

Cullerne, John P.; Machacek, Anton

9780199533794: The Language of Physics: A Foundation for University Study

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0199533792 ISBN 13: 9780199533794

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 2008

This book introduces physics to a first year undergraduate in the language of mathematics. As such it aims to give a mathematical foundation to the physics taught at school as well as extending it to the skills and disciplines approached during a first degree course in physical science or engineering. It bridges two gaps in modern education - between the level of difficulty between A-level and undergraduate study, and between mathematics and physics. Many of the concepts are revised or introduced in the course of 'workshop' questions which are an integral part of the text. Fully explained solutions to these workshops are given as a substantial appendix to the book. The student will be enabled to study classical mechanics in terms of vector calculus, fields in terms of line and surface integrals, oscillations and waves in terms of complex exponentials and so on. As far as we are aware, this book is unique in its aim, its content, and its approach.

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About the Author:

John P. Cullerne
Head of Physics
Winchester College Anton Machacek
Head of Physics
Royal Grammar School
High Wycombe

Review:

UNEDITED UK REVIEW: "The gap in knowledge and understanding between A-level exit and University entrance in Physics and Engineering has long been a concern to both school teachers and University tutors. 'The Language of Physics' is thus warmly to be welcomed, filling as it does the growing divide between general A-level texts and specialised undergraduate books. 6th formers wanting to prepare for University entrance in the applied mathematical and physical sciences should read 'The Language of Physics' to open their eyes to the sheer beauty of their subject, presented here in a straightforward and elegant manner. Confused first year science undergraduates will also find it invaluable in piecing together a wide range of seemingly disparate topics in a stylish and concise way."--Stephen Payne, University of Oxford

UNEDITED UK REVIEW: "This is an excellently written textbook that explains very clearly how to describe physical processes in terms of mathematics. This is an essential skill that undergraduates need to acquire and there are many illuminating problems given on mechanics, fields, rotation, oscillations and waves, circuits, and thermal physics. While it is principally aimed at first year undergraduates in physics or engineering, it would also be a very useful preparatory textbook for students about to start at university. It is highly recommended. "--Nick Jelley, University of Oxford

"The Language of Physics aims to fill the perceived gap in education between pre-university and university studies in the British educational system...The book does contain many very good problems that stress mathematical application, making the work useful as a review or secondary source for US students...Recommended."--Choice

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