Dynamics and Relativity

by W. D. McComb

Overview

Dynamics and Relativity provides undergraduates in physics with an unusually accessible introduction to special relativity by emphasizing the connections between relativity and classical mechanics. The book begins by developing classical mechanics in a form that the author calls "Galilean Relativity," which emphasizes frames of reference. The author shows how a problem formulated in one frame of reference can then solved in another where the problem takes a simpler form. After applying this strategy to a number of classical problems, the author discusses the limitations of Galilean Relativity, particularly for handling Maxwell's equations, and then proceeds to develop Special Relativity while drawing extensively on the groundwork from the previous chapters. The book stresses conservation laws throughout and includes a final chapter that briefly outlines General Relativity.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780198501121
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	02/10/2000
Pages:	392
Product dimensions:	9.69(w) x 7.44(h) x 0.81(d)

Table of Contents

1. Galilean relativity2. Conservation laws3. Central forces4. Mechanical vibrations and waves5. Systems of N particles6. Solid-body motion7. Non-inertial frames of reference8. Variable-mass problems9. Collisions10. Scattering of particles11. Special relativity12. Relativistic kinematics13. Space-time geometry14. Relativistic dynamics15. Towards general relativityAppendix A. Integration using a dummy variableAppendix B. Solid anglesAppendix C. Relativistic inertial massAppendix D. The Penrose-Terrell rotationAppendix E. Solutions to exercisesIndex

Editorial Reviews

"The author's key idea is to discuss pre-relativistic physics in a relativistc way, thus allowing the reader to become gradually accustomed to concepts ...In this respect, McComb's book is unique. ...His presentation is clear, rigorous and concise without going into unneccessary mathematical complexities. ...examples and diagrams are used making the book easy to follow and attractive. ...The book also contains a substantial number of exercises of varying difficulty and provides their full solutions instead of simply citing the answers. To the earnest student, this should offer a hands-on test of his understanding of the theory. ...a comprehensive book that also provides the undergraduate student with a smooth transition from the classical world to Einstein's theory."—Contemporary Physics, 2000 Volume 41 Number 5 pages 337-350

From the Publisher