A Course in Mathematics for Students of Physics: Volume 2 - Hardcover

Bamberg, Paul; Sternberg, Shlomo

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521332451 ISBN 13: 9780521332453

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1990

Synopsis

This textbook, available in two volumes, has been developed from a course taught at Harvard over the last decade. The course covers principally the theory and physical applications of linear algebra and of the calculus of several variables, particularly the exterior calculus. The authors adopt the 'spiral method' of teaching, covering the same topic several times at increasing levels of sophistication and range of application. Thus the reader develops a deep, intuitive understanding of the subject as a whole, and an appreciation of the natural progression of ideas. Topics covered include many items previously dealt with at a much more advanced level, such as algebraic topology (introduced via the analysis of electrical networks), exterior calculus, Lie derivatives, and star operators (which are applied to Maxwell's equations and optics). This then is a text which breaks new ground in presenting and applying sophisticated mathematics in an elementary setting. Any student, interpreted in the widest sense, with an interest in physics and mathematics, will gain from its study.

About this title

Book Description

This textbook covers the theory and physical applications of linear algebra and of the calculus of several variables, particularly the exterior calculus. It uses the 'spiral' method of teaching ñ covering the same topic several times with increasing depth and range of application in order to give the reader an intuitive understanding of the subject.

Review

"This textbook (Vol. 1 & 2) is a well-written and well illustrated introduction to the mathematics of modern physics. The combination of mathematics and physical applications provides an excellent learning environment for students of physics and for scientists wishing to upgrade their education. This textbook emphasizes the geometric visualization of mathematical equations, and tries to develop in the student an intuitive feel for the mathematics. Overall, this book is a welcomed introduction to the mathematics required in modern physics." La Physique au Canada

"The beauty of the book lies in the examples used to illustrate the mathematical concepts." Roger Waxler, Siam Review

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1990
• ISBN 10: 0521332451
• ISBN 13: 9780521332453
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 461