Elements of Mechanics

The first volume in a three-part series, Elements of Mechanics provides a rigorous calculus-based introduction to classical physics. It considers diverse phenomena in a systematic manner and emphasises the development of consistent and coherent models guided by symmetry considerations and the application of general principles. Modern developments colour the presentation and are alluded to when most relevant, but the focus remains firmly on the classical formulations and model descriptions of particular physical systems. The specific topics covered in Elements of Mechanics include: Kinematics in one and more dimensions in Cartesian and polar coordinates Dynamics, Galilean Relativity and Newton’s Laws of Motion Energetics, work–energy theorems, conservative forces, and potential energy Impulse and momentum, systems of particles and rigid bodies Rigid body rotational kinematics, dynamics, and energetics Statics Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation The book prepares undergraduate students majoring in the natural sciences and engineering for intermediate and advanced classes in their disciplines which rely upon this foundational material. It also supplies a comprehensive review in preparation for graduate or professional exams. Therefore, the series is structured in such manner that the second and third books, Properties of Materials and Electricity and Magnetism, follow upon the first, but may be read independently of each other. Written in a conversational and accessible style, the material is presented in standard, canonical sequence. Worked examples and collections of problems serve to illustrate and illuminate subject material in each volume.

MechanicsPhysics and Measurement Kinematics in One Dimension More Kinematics in One Dimension Still More Kinematics in One Dimension VectorsMotion in Two and Three Dimensions Projectile MotionCircular MotionDynamics and Newton’s First LawInertia and Newton’s Second and Third LawsSolving Dynamics Problems Using Newton’s LawsRopes and PulleysBlocks in Trains and in ContactPlanes and Fancies Spring Fever Fact and Friction Fun with Friction Cornering: Flat and Banked Non-Uniform Circular Motion Drag Forces Work and Energy All Work and Some Play The Work–Energy Theorem Conservative Forces Potential Energy Dynamics from Potential Energy Total Mechanical Energy Non-Conservative Forces and Power Momentum and Impulse Systems of Particles and Centre of Mass Seven Amazing Properties of the Centre of Mass Collisions Completely Inelastic Collisions Rotation Rotation and Translation Introduction to Rotational Dynamics Mo’ Moments of Inertia Moment of Inertia Theorems Torque Torque-y Topics Pulleys with Rotational Inertia Angular Momentum Rolling Motion Static Equilibrium Statics: Levers and Ladders Step It Up Universal Gravitation Extended Sources and Energetics Gravitational Effects and Dynamics Kepler’s Laws Epilogue Mechanics ProblemsK Kinematics Problems D Dynamics Problems E Energetics Problems M Momentum and Systems Problems R Rotation Problems S Statics Problems G Gravitation Problems List of Symbols Index

P.F. Kelly is an associate professor of physics at Ave Maria University in Florida. He previously held a faculty position at North Dakota State University and he undertook post-doctoral studies at the Center for Theoretical Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and at the Winnipeg Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of Winnipeg. He holds a Ph.D from the University of Toronto. His areas of interest include theoretical, particle, gravitational, mathematical, and computational physics.