Theoretical Concepts in Physics: An Alternative View of Theoretical Reasoning in Physics for Final-Year Undergraduates - Softcover

Longair, Malcolm S.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521275539 ISBN 13: 9780521275538

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1984

Synopsis

In this highly individual, and truly novel, approach to theoretical reasoning in physics, the author has provided a course that illuminates the subject from the standpoint of real physics as practised by research scientists. Professor Longair gives the basic insights, attitudes, and techniques that are the tools of the professional physicist, in a manner that conveys the intellectual excitement and beauty of the subject. The book is intended to be a supplement to more traditional courses for physics undergraduates, and the author assumes that his readers already have some knowledge of the main branches of physics. As the story unfolds, much of the core material of an undergraduate course in physics is reviewed from a more mature point of view. This is not, in fact, a substitute for existing texts. Rather it goes beyond them by improving the student's appreciation of the subject.

About this title

Book Description

This unique book shows how physics, as practised by professional physicists, can be appreciated through a series of case studies spanning essentially the whole of a university physics course. Although all the arguments are set out precisely in physical and mathematical terms, it is written in a lively and non-technical manner, intended to deepen understanding and appreciation of the incredible achievements of theorists in creating the structure of modern physics. The first edition has been enjoyed by many generations of students; this new edition extends and deepens all the topics.

About the Author

Malcolm Longair is Emeritus Jacksonian Professor of Natural Philosophy and Director of Development at the Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge. He has held many highly distinguished positions within physics and astronomy and has served on and chaired many international committees, boards and panels, working with both NASA and the European Space Agency. He has received much recognition for his work, including the Pilkington Prize of the University of Cambridge for Excellence in Teaching and a CBE in the millennium honours list for his services to astronomy and cosmology. His previous well-received books for Cambridge University Press include Theoretical Concepts in Physics (2003), The Cosmic Century: A History of Astrophysics and Cosmology (2005) and High Energy Astrophysics (2011).

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1984
• ISBN 10: 0521275539
• ISBN 13: 9780521275538
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 384