The Elements of Physics

An introduction to physics for first-year physics students, designed to deliver information clearly and concisely. The authors guide the student through the foundations of university physics in this authoritative introduction. The two-colour text design and over 500 diagrams bring out the key points, and the text makes full advantage of features such as worked examples, graded problems, and an appendix on necessary mathematics in order to better explain the subject and meet the needs of the modern student. A new approach is taken to the mathematics needed for an understanding of year 1 physics, recognising that the mathematical ability of students varies and that many need more help than the present texts give. The last chapter, to which reference is made throughout thetext, summarises the basic mathematics. Additional mathematical material is treated at the point in the text where it is needed. Extensive algebra is often avoided by appealing to physics arguments to establish end results. The text uses up to date applications of the basic laws of physics, and has explanatory drawings wherever necessary. The emphasis is on examples from modern physics. Short biographical sketches of some distinguished physicists are included for human interest. The book is divided into 7 parts: Mechanics, Vibrations and waves, Quantum physics, Properties of matter, Electricity and magnetism, Realtivity, and the Mathematcical review. Summaries of the slient features and important equations are given at the end of each Part, and important equations and laws are highlighted throughout the text. WEB SITE www oup.com/ephys Sample chapter showing design and pedagogical features All illustrations available to download for free Additional material, expanding the book, will be written by the authors and placed on the web site.