Inquiry into Physics (with InfoTrac) - Softcover

Ostdiek, Vern J.; Bord, Donald J.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0534491685 ISBN 13: 9780534491680

Publisher: Brooks Cole, 2004

Synopsis

The Fifth Edition of INQUIRY INTO PHYSICS maintains the perfect balance of quantitative and conceptual content by carefully incorporating problem solving into a discernible conceptual framework. The text integrates simple mathematics so students can see the practicality of physics and have a means of testing scientific validity. Throughout the text, Ostdiek and Bord emphasize the relevance of physics in our daily lives. This text is committed to a concept- and inquiry-based style of learning, as evidenced in the "Explore-It-Yourself" boxes, concept-based flow-charts in the Chapter Openers, and "Learning Checks." Students will also find applied examples throughout the text, such as metal detectors, Fresnel lenses, kaleidoscopes, and smoke detectors. The text also periodically reviews the historical development of physics, which is particularly relevant as context for non-science majors.

About this title

About the Author:

Vern Ostdiek was an Associate Professor at Benedictine College, where he had a joint appointment in the Department of Physics and Astronomy and the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. In addition to teaching courses in physics, mathematics, and computer science, he oversaw the Computer Discovery Lab. Vern was named Benedictine College's Educator of the Year in 1999. His research interests centered on the nocturnal dynamics of the lower part of the Earth's atmosphere. Past research topics include noctilucent clouds and frontal zones.

Review:

"This is my favorite book for this course."

"I highly prefer INQUIRY INTO PHYSICS over all the other leading texts available at this level because it has a few but not too many formulas: Ostdiek/Bord carefully introduce about 5 easy equations per chapter. I believe this is absolutely necessary because a first contact with interesting algebra early is highly desirable, especially for students who take a first introductory science course. A purely phenomenological text may make easy reading but it does not serve students well as they get the dangerous impression that they can do good science without any quantitative reasoning."

About this edition

• Publisher: Brooks Cole
• Publication date: 2004
• ISBN 10: 0534491685
• ISBN 13: 9780534491680
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 5
• Number of pages: 560