An Introduction to Mechanics

For 40 years, Kleppner and Kolenkow's classic text has introduced students to the principles of mechanics. Now brought up to date, this revised and improved second edition is ideal for classical mechanics courses for first- and second-year undergraduates with foundation skills in mathematics. The book retains all the features of the first edition, including numerous worked examples, challenging problems and extensive illustrations, and has been restructured to improve the flow of ideas. It now features new examples taken from recent developments, such as laser slowing of atoms, exoplanets and black holes; a 'Hints, Clues and Answers' section for the end-of-chapter problems to support student learning; and a solutions manual for instructors at www.cambridge.org/kandk.

1. Vectors and kinematics; 2. Newton's laws; 3. Forces and equations of motion; 4. Momentum; 5. Work and energy; 6. Small oscillations, stability, and collisions; 7. Angular momentum and fixed axis rotation; 8. Rigid body motion; 9. Noninertial systems and fictitious forces; 10. Central force motion; 11. The harmonic oscillator; 12. The special theory of relativity; 13. Relativistic dynamics; 14. Spacetime physics; Index.

Daniel Kleppner is Lester Wolfe Professor of Physics Emeritus at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. For his contributions to teaching he has been awarded the Oersted Medal by the American Association of Physics Teachers and the Lilienfeld Prize of the American Physical Society. He has also received the Wolf Prize in Physics and the National Medal of Science.
Robert Kolenkow was Associate Professor of Physics at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Renowned for his skills as a teacher, Kolenkow was awarded the Everett Moore Baker Award for Outstanding Teaching.