Theoretical Concepts in Physics: An Alternative View of Theoretical Reasoning in Physics - Softcover

Longair, Malcolm S.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 052152878X ISBN 13: 9780521528788

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2003

Synopsis

This second edition of a popular text demonstrates how physics can be appreciated through a series of case studies spanning a complete university physics course. Highlights include three new chapters on Newton's laws (one on ancient astronomy up to the time of Galileo, one on Galileo, and one on Newton); a new chapter on dimensional methods, chaos and self-organized criticality; and a new chapter on the technology of cosmology. Although all the arguments are presented precisely in physical and mathematical terminology, the book is written in a relatively non-technical manner, intended to convey a deep understanding and appreciation of the incredible achievements of theorists in creating the structure of modern physics. First Edition Hb (1984): 0-521-25550-3 First Edition Pb (1984): 0-521-27553-9

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: 2003
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 052152878X
• ISBN 13: 9780521528788
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 588