100 Best Classical Mechanics Books of All Time

We've researched and ranked the best classical mechanics books in the world, based on recommendations from world experts, sales data, and millions of reader ratings. Learn more

Featuring recommendations from Bill Gates, Eric Weinstein, Alan Kay, and 10 other experts.
1
In Thing Explainer: Complicated Stuff in Simple Words, things are explained in the style of Up Goer Five, using only drawings and a vocabulary of the 1,000 (or "ten hundred") most common words. Explore computer buildings (datacenters), the flat rocks we live on (tectonic plates), the things you use to steer a plane (airliner cockpit controls), and the little bags of water you're made of (cells). less

Bill GatesThing Explainer is filled with cool basic knowledge about how the world works. If one of Munroe’s drawings inspires you to go learn more about a subject—including a few extra terms—then he will have done his job. He has written a wonderful guide for curious minds. (Source)

Kate Lee (St Paul's Girls' School)It’s about how to explain things using the simplest terms you possibly can, using only the top 1,000 words in the English language. It’s just ingenious. So many people will try and sound clever by using lots of fancy words, but this is exact opposite. It is being clever by using the most straightforward language you possibly can, without sacrificing accuracy. It’s beautifully drawn and... (Source)

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2

The Feynman Lectures on Physics

The legendary introduction to physics from the subject's greatest teacher
"The whole thing was basically an experiment," Richard Feynman said late in his career, looking back on the origins of his lectures. The experiment turned out to be hugely successful, spawning a book that has remained a definitive introduction to physics for decades. Ranging from the most basic principles of Newtonian physics through such formidable theories as general relativity and quantum mechanics, Feynman's lectures stand as a monument of clear exposition and deep insight. Now, we are reintroducing the...
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Recommended by Bill Gates, David Bainbridge, and 2 others.

Bill GatesYou don't have to take a course [to learn physics]. If you're hardcore, read the Feynman book and do the problems. (Source)

David BainbridgeI think that he is one of the most intelligent people to live in the 20th century. Yet at the same time, surprisingly, he is an amazingly good teacher. This is quite an unusual combination. (Source)

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3
A master teacher presents the ultimate introduction to classical mechanics for people who are serious about learning physics
"Beautifully clear explanations of famously 'difficult' things," --Wall Street Journal

A Wall Street Journal Best Book of 2013

If you ever regretted not taking physics in college--or simply want to know how to think like a physicist--this is the book for you. In this bestselling introduction, physicist Leonard Susskind and hacker-scientist George Hrabovsky offer a first course in physics and...
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Recommended by Eric Weinstein, and 1 others.

Eric Weinstein[Eric Weinstein recommended this book on Twitter.] (Source)

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4
Learning classical mechanics doesn't have to be hard

What if there was a way to learn classical mechanics without all the usual fluff? What if there were a book that allowed you to see the whole picture and not just tiny parts of it?

Thoughts like this are the reason that No-Nonsense Classical Mechanics now exists.

What will you learn from this book?


Get to know all fundamental mechanics concepts - Grasp why we can describe classical mechanics using the Lagrangian formalism, the Newtonian formalism, or the Hamiltonian...
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5

The Feynman Lectures on Physics Vol 1

Recommended by Bill Gates, and 1 others.

Bill GatesYou don't have to take a course [to learn physics]. If you're hardcore, read the Feynman book and do the problems. (Source)

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6

Turning Pro

The follow up to the War of Art. In the War of Art Pressfield identifies the enemy to living an authentic life – resistance. In Turning Pro, Pressfield teaches you how to defeat it. less
Recommended by Jacqui Pretty, Aubrey Marcus, and 2 others.

Jacqui PrettyFor non-business, a nonfiction one would be Turning Pro by Steven Pressfield, which is about taking a professional approach to your art - ensuring you sit down every day and do the work, rather than treating it like a hobby. (Source)

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7
From the bestselling author of The Theoretical Minimum, a DIY introduction to the math and science of quantum mechanics.

First he taught you classical mechanics. Now, physicist Leonard Susskind has teamed up with data engineer Art Friedman to present the theory and associated mathematics of the strange world of quantum mechanics.

In this follow-up to the New York Times best-selling The Theoretical Minimum, Susskind and Friedman provide a lively introduction to this famously difficult field, which attempts to understand the behavior of sub-atomic...
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Recommended by Eric Weinstein, and 1 others.

Eric Weinstein[Eric Weinstein recommended this book on Twitter.] (Source)

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8
A funny, insightful, and self-contained guide to Einstein's relativity theory and classical field theories--including electromagnetism

Physicist Leonard Susskind and data engineer Art Friedman are back. This time, they introduce readers to Einstein's special relativity and Maxwell's classical field theory. Using their typical brand of real math, enlightening drawings, and humor, Susskind and Friedman walk us through the complexities of waves, forces, and particles by exploring special relativity and electromagnetism. It's a must-read for both devotees of the series and any...
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9

Classical Mechanics

For 30 years, this book has been the acknowledged standard in advanced classical mechanics courses. This classic book enables readers to make connections between classical and modern physics -- an indispensable part of a physicist's education. In this new edition, Beams Medal winner Charles Poole and John Safko have updated the book to include the latest topics, applications, and notation to reflect today's physics curriculum. less

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10

Classical Mechanics

John Taylor has brought to his new book, Classical Mechanics, all of the clarity and insight that made his introduction to Error Analysis a best-selling text. less

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11

Baby & Bump (This & That #1)

This is an updated cover edition of ISBN10: 1939976022 (ISBN13: 9781939976024).

At thirty years old, caterer Lexie Baump has a lot on her plate. With a business to run, she doesn’t have time for any added distractions. But one momentary indiscretion adds a little hiccup to Lexie’s plans. She’s pregnant. With no relationship prospects.

But if Lexie thought fighting morning sickness while running a catering business was hard, enter Dr. Fletcher Haybee. Their connection is instant, and their...
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12

Course of Theoretical Physics

Vol. 1, Mechanics

Devoted to the foundation of mechanics, namely classical Newtonian mechanics, the subject is based mainly on Galileo's principle of relativity and Hamilton's principle of least action. The exposition is simple and leads to the most complete direct means of solving problems in mechanics.
The final sections on adiabatic invariants have been revised and augmented. In addition a short biography of L D Landau has been inserted.
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13
We now know that there is much more to classical mechanics than previously suspected. Derivations of the equations of motion, the focus of traditional presentations of mechanics, are just the beginning. This innovative textbook, now in its second edition, concentrates on developing general methods for studying the behavior of classical systems, whether or not they have a symbolic solution. It focuses on the phenomenon of motion and makes extensive use of computer simulation in its explorations of the topic. It weaves recent discoveries in nonlinear dynamics throughout the text, rather than... more

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14
Reviews from the First Edition:

"An excellent text ... The postulates of quantum mechanics and the mathematical underpinnings are discussed in a clear, succinct manner." (American Scientist)

"No matter how gently one introduces students to the concept of Dirac's bras and kets, many are turned off. Shankar attacks the problem head-on in the first chapter, and in a very informal style suggests that there is nothing to be frightened of." (Physics Bulletin)

Reviews of the Second Edition:

"This massive text of 700 and odd pages has indeed an excellent...
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Recommended by Eric Weinstein, and 1 others.

Eric Weinstein[Eric Weinstein recommended this book on Twitter.] (Source)

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15
This textbook covers all the standard introductory topics in classical mechanics, including Newton's laws, oscillations, energy, momentum, angular momentum, planetary motion, and special relativity. It also explores more advanced topics, such as normal modes, the Lagrangian method, gyroscopic motion, fictitious forces, 4-vectors, and general relativity. It contains more than 250 problems with detailed solutions so students can easily check their understanding of the topic. There are also over 350 unworked exercises which are ideal for homework assignments. Password protected solutions are... more

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16

Mathematics of Classical and Quantum Physics

This textbook is designed to complement graduate-level physics texts in classical mechanics, electricity, magnetism, and quantum mechanics. Organized around the central concept of a vector space, the book includes numerous physical applications in the body of the text as well as many problems of a physical nature. It is also one of the purposes of this book to introduce the physicist to the language and style of mathematics as well as the content of those particular subjects with contemporary relevance in physics.
Chapters 1 and 2 are devoted to the mathematics of classical physics....
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17
Philosophic, less formalistic approach to perennially important field of analytical mechanics. Model of clear, scholarly exposition at graduate level with coverage of basic concepts, calculus of variations, principle of virtual work, equations of motion, relativistic mechanics, much more. First inexpensive paperbound edition. Index. Bibliography. less

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18
Big, brainy science for the littlest listeners

Accurate enough to satisfy an expert, yet simple enough for baby, this book explores the basics of flight – from birds, to planes and rockets – and ties it all to baby’s world. Beautiful, visually stimulating illustrations complement age-appropriate language to encourage baby’s sense of wonder. Parents and caregivers may learn a thing or two, as well!

With tongue firmly in cheek, the Baby Loves Science series introduces highly intellectual science concepts to the littlest learners.
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19

Foundations of Mechanics

This is a reference on symplectic geometry, analytical mechanics and symplectic methods in mathematical physics. less

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20

Introduction to Electrodynamics

This work offers accesible coverage of the fundamentals of electrodynamics, enhanced with with discussion points, examples and exercises. less

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Don't have time to read the top Classical Mechanics books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
21
This textbook is aimed at newcomers to nonlinear dynamics and chaos. The presentation stresses analytical methods, concrete examples, and geometric intuition. A unique feature of the book is its emphasis on applications. These include mechanical vibrations, lasers, biological rhythms, superconducting circuits, insect outbreaks, chemical oscillators, genetic control systems, chaotic waterwheels, and even a technique for using chaos to send secret messages. In each case, the scientific background is explained at an elementary level and closely integrated with mathematical theory.
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22
This problem book is ideal for high-school and college students in search of practice problems with detailed solutions. All of the standard introductory topics in mechanics are covered: kinematics, Newton's laws, energy, momentum, angular momentum, oscillations, gravity, and fictitious forces. The introduction to each chapter provides an overview of the relevant concepts. Students can then warm up with a series of multiple-choice questions before diving into the free-response problems which constitute the bulk of the book. The first few problems in each chapter are derivations of key... more

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23

An Introduction to Mechanics

In the years since it was first published in 1973 by McGraw-Hill, this classic introductory textbook has established itself as one of the best-known and most highly regarded descriptions of Newtonian mechanics. Intended for undergraduate students with foundation skills in mathematics and a deep interest in physics, it systematically lays out the principles of mechanics: vectors, Newton's laws, momentum, energy, rotational motion, angular momentum and noninertial systems, and includes chapters on central force motion, the harmonic oscillator, and relativity. Numerous worked examples... more

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25
This bestselling DIY handbook now features new and expanded projects, enabling ordinary folks to construct 16 awesome ballistic devices in their garage or basement workshops using inexpensive household or hardware store materials and this step-by-step guide. Clear instructions, diagrams, and photographs show how to build projects ranging from the simple match-powered rocket to the more complex tabletop catapult and the offbeat Cincinnati fire kite. The classic potato cannon has a new evil twin—the piezo-electric spud gun and the electromagnetic pipe gun has joined the company of such... more

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•Detailed “theory” is given with the figures to understand the topic well.

•“Sample examples” are given for subject understanding before the text.

•Each topic includes the “introductory exercise” to test the ability.

•“Extra Points” are given to follow the points in brief.

•2 leveled solved examples are given at the end of chapter

•Consist 2 leveled exercise level 1 for AIEEE and level 2 for IIT JEE, including subjective Questions, Single Correct Option, Assertion & Reason, Match the Column including Reasoning, Aptitude &...
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27

Basic Machines and How They Work

This revised edition of an extremely clear Navy training manual leaves nothing to be desired in its presentation. Thorough in its coverage of basic theory, from the lever and inclined plane to internal combustion engines and power trains, it requires nothing more than an understanding of the most elementary mathematics.
Beginning with the simplest of machines — the lever — the text proceeds to discussions of the block and tackle (pulleys and hoists), wheel and axle, the inclined plane and the wedge, the screw, and different types of gears (simple, spur, bevel, herringbone, spiral, worm,...
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28

Classical Field Theory

Classical field theory predicts how physical fields interact with matter, and is a logical precursor to quantum field theory. This introduction focuses purely on modern classical field theory, helping graduates and researchers build an understanding of classical field theory methods before embarking on future studies in quantum field theory. It describes various classical methods for fields with negligible quantum effects, for instance electromagnetism and gravitational fields. It focuses on solutions that take advantage of classical field theory methods as opposed to applications or... more

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29
This first volume of The LEGO Power Functions Idea Book, Machines and Mechanisms, showcases small projects to build with LEGO Technic gears, motors, gadgets, and other moving elements. You'll find hundreds of clever, buildable mechanisms, each one demonstrating a key building technique or mechanical principle.

You'll learn to build sliding doors, grasping claws, rack-and-pinion mechanisms, and ball-shooting devices of every sort!

Each model includes a list of required parts and colorful photographs that guide you through the build without the need for step-by-step...
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30
This second volume of The LEGO Power Functions Idea Book, Cars and Contraptions, showcases small projects to build with LEGO Technic gears, motors, gadgets, and other moving elements. You'll find hundreds of clever, buildable mechanisms, each one demonstrating a key building technique or mechanical principle.

You'll learn to build four-wheel drive cars, adorable walking 'bots, steerable tanks, robotic inchworms, and cars that can follow the edge of a table!

Each model includes a list of required parts and colorful photographs that guide you through the build...
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Don't have time to read the top Classical Mechanics books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
31
Discovering the secrets of animal movement and what they can teach us

Insects walk on water, snakes slither, and fish swim. Animals move with astounding grace, speed, and versatility: how do they do it, and what can we learn from them? In How to Walk on Water and Climb up Walls, David Hu takes readers on an accessible, wondrous journey into the world of animal motion. From basement labs at MIT to the rain forests of Panama, Hu shows how animals have adapted and evolved to traverse their environments, taking advantage of physical laws with results that are startling...
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32
In his monumental 1687 work Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica, known familiarly as the Principia, Isaac Newton laid out in mathematical terms the principles of time, force, and motion that have guided the development of modern physical science. Even after more than three centuries and the revolutions of Einsteinian relativity and quantum mechanics, Newtonian physics continues to account for many of the phenomena of the observed world, and Newtonian celestial dynamics is used to determine the orbits of our space vehicles.
This completely new translation, the first...
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Recommended by Alan Kay, and 1 others.

Alan KayI have never forgotten the combined shock and thrill of making my way through this in my 20s. (Source)

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33

Mathematical Methods of Classical Mechanics

This book constructs the mathematical apparatus of classical mechanics from the beginning, examining basic problems in dynamics like the theory of oscillations and the Hamiltonian formalism. The author emphasizes geometrical considerations and includes phase spaces and flows, vector fields, and Lie groups. Discussion includes qualitative methods of the theory of dynamical systems and of asymptotic methods like averaging and adiabatic invariance. less

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34
This textbook provides a simple introduction to mechanics for students coming to the subject for the first time. The text is based on courses given to first and second year undergraduates and has been written with this audience very much in mind. Prerequisites are only a basic familiarity with vectors, matrices, and elementary calculus. The author's aim is to provide an understanding of Newtonian mechanics using the tools of modern algebra. The first chapters of the book introduce the fundamentals of the motion of rigid bodies: Newton's laws, forces, linear and angular momentum, and the... more

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35
Professor R. Shankar, a well-known physicist and contagiously enthusiastic educator, was among the first to offer a course through the innovative Open Yale Course program. His popular online video lectures on introductory physics have been viewed over a million times. In this concise and self-contained book based on his online Yale course, Shankar explains the fundamental concepts of physics from Galileo’s and Newton’s discoveries to the twentieth-century’s revolutionary ideas on relativity and quantum mechanics.
 
The book begins at the simplest level, develops the basics, and...
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36
The fourth edition contains seven new sections with chapters on General Relativity, Gravitational Waves and Relativistic Cosmology. The text has been thoroughly revised and additional problems inserted. The Complete course of Theoretical Physics by Landau and Lifshitz, recognized as two of the world's outstanding physicists, is published in full by Butterworth-Heinemann. It comprises nine volumes, covering all branches of the subject; translations from the Russian are by leading scientists. less

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37
More than a generation of German-speaking students around the world have worked theirwaytoanunderstandingandappreciationofthepowerandbeautyofmodernt- oretical physics with mathematics, the most fundamental of sciences using Walter Greiner s textbooks as their guide. The idea of developing a coherent, complete presentation of an entire eld of s- ence in a series of closely related textbooks is not a new one. Many older physicians remember with real pleasure their sense of adventure and discovery as they worked their ways through the classic series by Sommerfeld, by Planck, and by Landau and... more

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38

Idiot's Guides

Quantum Physics

Quantum physics explores the behavior of matter and energy at the molecular, atomic, nuclear, and even smaller levels. Idiot's Guides: Quantum Physics makes this very complex topic easy to understand. It skips the complicated math and dives right into all the concepts, paradoxes, thought experiments, and implications that make quantum mechacs so fascinating to armchair science buffs. Topics covered include:

- Quantum vs. classical physics
- A look at the smallest known particles
- How the tiniest particles behave both as particles and waves
- The famous...
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39

An Introduction to Celestial Mechanics

This accessible text on classical celestial mechanics, the principles governing the motions of bodies in the Solar System, provides a clear and concise treatment of virtually all of the major features of solar system dynamics. Building on advanced topics in classical mechanics such as rigid body rotation, Langrangian mechanics and orbital perturbation theory, this text has been written for advanced undergraduates and beginning graduate students in astronomy, physics, mathematics and related fields. Specific topics covered include Keplerian orbits, the perihelion precession of the planets,... more

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Don't have time to read the top Classical Mechanics books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
43
High-level, explicit treatment of the principle of general covariance as applied to electromagnetics examines the natural invariance of the Maxwell equations, general properties of the medium, nonuniformity, anisotropy and general coordinates in three-space, reciprocity and nonreciprocity, and matter-free space with a gravitational field. 1962 edition.
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44
Today we are blessed with two extraordinarily successful theories of physics. The first is Albert Einstein's general theory of relativity, which describes the large-scale behaviour of matter in a curved spacetime. This theory is the basis for the standard model of big bang cosmology. The discovery of gravitational waves at the LIGO observatory in the US (and then Virgo, in Italy) is only the most recent of this theory's many triumphs.

The second is quantum mechanics. This theory describes the properties and behaviour of matter and radiation at their smallest scales. It is the basis...
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45

Mechanics

An excellent refresher volume as well as a classic introductory text, this book features hundreds of applications and design problems that illuminate fundamentals of trusses, loaded beams and cables, and related areas. Includes 334 answered problems. less

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46
Explains the physics of gravity and gravitational pull, offering information on the contributions made in this area by Copernicus, Galileo, and Newton. less

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47
This text will strengthen a student's ability to apply the laws of physics to practical situations and problems that yield more easily to intuitive insight than to complex mathematics. These problems, chosen almost exclusively from classical (non-quantum) physics, are posed in accessible nontechnical language and require the student to select the right framework in which to analyze the situation. The book will be invaluable to undergraduates preparing for "general physics" papers. Some physics professors will even find the more difficult questions challenging. The mathematical prerequisites... more

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48

Fundamentals of Fluid Mechanics [With Free Access to Website Study Aids]

The number one text in its field, Fundamentals of Fluid Mechanics is respected by professors and students alike for its comprehensive topical coverage, its varied examples and homework problems, its application of the visual component of fluid mechanics, and its strong focus on learning. The authors have designed their presentation to allow for the gradual development of student confidence in problem solving. Each important concept is introduced in simple and easy-to-understand terms before more complicated examples are discussed.

Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials...

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49
Epicyclic trains, oblique rollers, trip hammers, and lazy-tongs are among the ingenious mechanisms defined and illustrated in this intriguing collection. Spanning the first century of the Industrial Revolution, this 1868 compilation features simplified, concise illustrations of the mechanisms used in hydraulics, steam engines, pneumatics, presses, horologes, and scores of other machines.
The movements of each of the 507 mechanisms are depicted in drawings on the left-hand page, and the facing page presents a brief description of the item's use and operation. Ranging from simple to...
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50
This text explores the solution of two-dimensional lattice models. Topics include basic statistical mechanics, Ising models, the mean field model, the spherical model, ice-type models, corner transfer matrices, hard hexagonal models, and elliptic functions. The author has updated the 1989 version with a new chapter, "Subsequent Developments," for the 2007 edition. less

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Don't have time to read the top Classical Mechanics books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
51

Classical Dynamics of Particles and Systems

This best-selling classical mechanics text, written for the advanced undergraduate one- or two-semester course, provides a complete account of the classical mechanics of particles, systems of particles, and rigid bodies. Vector calculus is used extensively to explore topics.The Lagrangian formulation of mechanics is introduced early to show its powerful problem solving ability.. Modern notation and terminology are used throughout in support of the text's objective: to facilitate students' transition to advanced physics and the mathematical formalism needed for the quantum theory of physics.... more

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52

Classical Mechanics

Classical Mechanics Gregory's Classical Mechanics is a major new textbook for undergraduate students in mathematics and physics. Full description less

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53
This updated and expanded edition of the bestselling textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to the methods and theory of nonlinear finite element analysis. New material provides a concise introduction to some of the cutting-edge methods that have evolved in recent years in the field of nonlinear finite element modeling, and includes the eXtended finite element method (XFEM), multiresolution continuum theory for multiscale microstructures, and dislocation-density-based crystalline plasticity.

N"onlinear Finite Elements for Continua and Structures, Second Edition" focuses on...
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54
The second printing contains a critical discussion of Dirac derivation of canonical quantization, which is instead deduced from general geometric structures. This book arises out of the need for Quantum Mechanics (QM) to be part of the common education of mathematics students. The mathematical structure of QM is formulated in terms of the C*-algebra of observables, which is argued on the basis of the operational definition of measurements and the duality between states and observables, for a general physical system.The Dirac-von Neumann axioms are then derived. The description of states and... more

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55
DESCRIPTION:
over 100 fully-solved examples step-by-step solutions with explanations standard problems from physics with calculus includes tables of equations, symbols, and units This volume covers motion, including uniform acceleration, calculus-based motion, vector addition, projectile motion, Newton’s laws, center of mass integrals, conservation of energy, collisions, the scalar and vector product, rotation, moment of inertia integrals, satellites, and more. (Vol. 2 covers electricity and magnetism, while Vol. 3 covers waves, fluids, heat, sound, and light. Vol.’s...
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56
LEVEL: This book covers physics with calculus at the university level. (If instead you’re looking for a trig-based physics book, search for ISBN 1941691145.)

DESCRIPTION: This combination of physics study guide and workbook focuses on essential problem-solving skills and strategies: Fully solved examples with explanations show you step-by-step how to solve standard university physics problems. Handy charts tabulate the symbols, what they mean, and their SI units. Problem-solving strategies are broken down into steps and illustrated...
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57
(revised) This is a textbook on classical mechanics at the intermediate level, but its main purpose is to serve as an introduction to a new mathematical language for physics called geometric algebra. Mechanics is most commonly formulated today in terms of the vector algebra developed by the American physicist J. Willard Gibbs, but for some applications of mechanics the algebra of complex numbers is more efficient than vector algebra, while in other applications matrix algebra works better. Geometric algebra integrates all these algebraic systems into a coherent mathematical language which not... more

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58

The Book of Forces

Forces make the world go 'round - literally. This book provides a quick and easy-to-understand introduction to the quantity force and an overview of the many types of forces that shape our universe. Besides enlightening and down-to-earth explanations, you'll find plenty of detailed exercises demonstrating how the concepts and formulas can be applied to real-world situations. Knowledge of high school algebra is sufficient to follow the calculations. For more information, check out the table of contents.

From the author of "Great Formulas Explained", "Antimatter Propulsion" and...
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59
A concise account of various classic theories of fluids and solids, this book is for courses in continuum mechanics for graduate students and advanced undergraduates. Thoroughly class-tested in courses at Stanford University and the University of Warwick, it is suitable for both applied mathematicians and engineers. The only prerequisites are an introductory undergraduate knowledge of basic linear algebra and differential equations. Unlike most existing works at this level, this book covers both isothermal and thermal theories. The theories are derived in a unified manner from the fundamental... more

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60

Fluid Mechanics

A superb learning and teaching resource, this structured introduction to fluid mechanics covers everything the engineer needs to know: the nature of fluids, hydrostatics, differential and integral relations, dimensional analysis, viscous flows, and another topics. Solutions to selected problems. 760 illustrations. 1985 edition. less

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Don't have time to read the top Classical Mechanics books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
61

Mathematical Physics

Thorough, extremely useful treatment of classical mechanics, electromagnetic theory, and relativity, includes full explanations of function theory, vectors, matrices, dyadics, tensors, partial differential equations, and other advanced mathematical techniques. Nearly 200 problems with answers from many different fields of physics and varying widely in difficulty. less

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62
More than a generation of German-speaking students around the world have worked their way to an understanding and appreciation of the power and beauty of modern theoretical physics--with mathematics, the most fundamental of sciences--using Walter Greiner's textbooks as their guide. The idea of developing a coherent, complete presentation of an entire ?eld of science in a series of closely related textbooks is not a new one. Many older physicians remember with real pleasure their sense of adventure and discovery as they worked their ways through the classic series by Sommerfeld, by Planck, and... more

See more recommendations for this book...

63

Classical Mechanics

Geared toward advanced undergraduates and graduate students, this text covers applications not usually taught in physics courses: the theory of space-charge limited currents, atmospheric drag, the motion of meteoritic dust, variational principles in rocket motion, transfer functions, dissipative systems, and much more. 41 illustrations. 1960 edition. less

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64
From the reviews: "This book excels by its variety of modern examples in solid state physics, magnetism, elementary particle physics [...] I can recommend it strongly as a valuable source, especially to those who are teaching basic statistical physics at our universities." Physicalia less

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65

Lectures on Symplectic Geometry

These notes approximately transcribe a 15-week course on symplectic geometry I taught at UC Berkeley in the Fall of 1997. The course at Berkeley was greatly inspired in content and style by Victor Guillemin, whose masterly teaching of beautiful courses on topics related to s- plectic geometry at MIT, I was lucky enough to experience as a graduate student. I am very thankful to him! That course also borrowed from the 1997 Park City summer courses on symplectic geometry and topology, and from many talks and discussions of the symplectic geometry group at MIT. Among the regular participants in... more

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66

Engineering Mechanics

Statics

For introductory statics courses found in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, aeronautical engineering, and engineering mechanics departments. This best-selling text offers a concise yet thorough presentation of engineering mechanics theory and application. The material is reinforced with numerous examples to illustrate principles and imaginative, well-illustrated problems of varying degrees of difficulty. The text is committed to developing students' problem-solving skills and includes pedagogical features that have made Hibbeler synonymous with excellence in the field. Engineering... more

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69

The Physics of Musical Instruments

When we wrote the first edition of this book, we directed our presenta- tion to the reader with a compelling interest in musical instruments who has "a reasonable grasp of physics and who is not frightened by a little mathematics." We are delighted to find how many such people there are. The opportunity afforded by the preparation of this second edition has allowed us to bring our discussion up to date by including those new insights that have arisen from the work of many dedicated researchers over the past decade. We have also taken the opportunity to revise our presentation of some aspects... more

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70

Classical Mechanics

This book is intended to provide a thorough coverage of the fundamental principles and techniques of classical mechanics. The new edition has also been revised to give more emphasis to specific examples worked out in detail. less

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71
A concise but rigorous treatment of variational techniques, focussing primarily on Lagrangian and Hamiltonian systems, this book is ideal for physics, engineering and mathematics students. The book begins by applying Lagrange's equations to a number of mechanical systems. It introduces the concepts of generalized coordinates and generalized momentum. Following this the book turns to the calculus of variations to derive the Euler-Lagrange equations. It introduces Hamilton's principle and uses this throughout the book to derive further results. The Hamiltonian, Hamilton's equations, canonical... more

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72
The Sixth Edition of Physics for Scientists and Engineers offers a completely integrated text and media solution that will help students learn most effectively and will enable professors to customize their classrooms so that they teach most efficiently. The text includes a new strategic problem-solving approach, an integrated Math Tutorial, and new tools to improve conceptual understanding.
 
To simplify the review and use of the text, Physics for Scientists and Engineers is available in these versions:
Volume 1 Mechanics/Oscillations and...
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73

Vibrations and Waves


After careful analysis of objectives and the problems involved, preliminary versions of textbooks were prepared, tested through classroom use at M.I.T. and other institutions, re-evaluated, rewritten, and tried again. Only then were the final manuscripts undertaken.
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74
Nobel laureate Steven Weinberg has written that "all that has happened since 1687 is a gloss on the Principia." Now you too can appreciate the significance of this stellar work, regarded by many as the greatest scientific contribution of all time. Despite its dazzling reputation, Isaac Newton's Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica, or simply the Principia, remains a mystery for many people. Few of even the most intellectually curious readers, including professional scientists and mathematicians, have actually looked in the Principia or appreciate its... more

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75

Wave Phenomena

"The material is superbly chosen and brilliantly written … the language is clear, direct and rigorous … a superb addition to the library of any physicist." — Physics Today.






This lucidly written text emphasizes optics and acoustics, with considerable emphasis placed on establishing a close connection between mathematical expressions and the associated physical ideas.
Beginning with an inductive derivation of the equation for transverse waves on a string, the student is led through successively more complex subjects as acoustic plane waves,...
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76

Principles of Electrodynamics

This advanced undergraduate- and graduate-level text by the 1988 Nobel Prize winner establishes the subject's mathematical background, reviews the principles of electrostatics, then introduces Einstein's special theory of relativity and applies it throughout the book in topics ranging from Gauss' theorem and Coulomb's law to electric and magnetic susceptibility. less

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77

Statics for Dummies

The fast and easy way to ace your statics course Does the study of statics stress you out? Does just the thought of mechanics make you rigid? Thanks to this book, you can find balance in the study of this often-intimidating subject and ace even the most challenging university-level courses.

Statics For Dummies gives you easy-to-follow, plain-English explanations for everything you need to grasp the study of statics. You'll get a thorough introduction to this foundational branch of engineering and easy-to-follow coverage of solving problems involving forces on bodies...
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78

Engineering Mechanics Dynamics

The material is reinforced with numerous examples to illustrate principles and imaginative, well-illustrated problems of varying degrees of difficulty. Impeccably accurate from cover to cover, the book presents an unrivaled commitment to the development of problem-solving skills and features the many trademark pedagogical features that have made Hibbeler synonymous with excellence in the field. The Eighth Edition has been thoroughly revised and updated to offer insightful new problems, improved examples, and an enhanced full-color art program. less

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79

Analytical Mechanics

An Introduction

Analytical Mechanics is the investigation of motion with the rigorous tools of mathematics. Rooted in the works of Lagrange, Euler, Poincare (to mention just a few), it is a very classical subject with fascinating developments and still rich of open problems. It addresses such fundamental questions as: Is the solar system stable? Is there a unifying 'economy' principle in mechanics? How can a point mass be described as a 'wave'? And has remarkable applications to many branches of physics (Astronomy, Statistical mechanics, Quantum Mechanics).
This book was written to fill a gap...
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80

"Mathematical Foundations of Quantum Mechanics" was a revolutionary book that caused a sea change in theoretical physics. Here, John von Neumann, one of the leading mathematicians of the twentieth century, shows that great insights in quantum physics can be obtained by exploring the mathematical structure of quantum mechanics. He begins by presenting the theory of Hermitean operators and Hilbert spaces. These provide the framework for transformation theory, which von Neumann regards as the definitive form of quantum mechanics. Using this theory, he attacks with mathematical rigor some...
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82

"Introducing Newton" explains the extraordinary ideas of a man who sifted through the accumulated knowledge of centuries, tossed out mistaken beliefs, and single-handedly made enormous advances in mathematics, mechanics and optics. By the age of 25, entirely self-taught, he had sketched out a system of the world. Einstein's theories are unthinkable without Newton's founding system. He was also a secret heretic, a mystic and an alchemist, the man of whom Edmond Halley said, 'Nearer to the gods may no man approach!'.

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83
Apart from an introductory chapter giving a brief summary of Newtonian and Lagrangian mechanics, this book consists entirely of questions and solutions on topics in classical mechanics that will be encountered in undergraduate and graduate courses. These include one-, two-, and three- dimensional motion; linear and nonlinear oscillations; energy, potentials, momentum, and angular momentum; spherically symmetric potentials; multi-particle systems; rigid bodies; translation and rotation of the reference frame; the relativity principle and some of its consequences. The solutions are followed by... more

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84

Biomechanics for Dummies

A thorough explanation of the tenets of biomechanics At once a basic and applied science, biomechanics focuses on the mechanical cause-effect relationships that determine the motions of living organisms. Biomechanics for Dummies examines the relationship between biological and mechanical worlds. It clarifies a vital topic for students of biomechanics who work in a variety of fields, including biological sciences, exercise and sports science, health sciences, ergonomics and human factors, and engineering and applied science. Following the path of a traditional introductory... more

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85
Million-copy bestselling author of The Elements, Molecules, and Reactions Theodore Gray applies his trademark mix of engaging stories, real-time experiments, and stunning photography to the inner workings of machines, big and small, revealing the extraordinary science, beauty, and rich history of everyday things.
Theodore Gray has become a household name among fans, both young and old, of popular science and mechanics. He's an incorrigible tinkerer with a constant curiosity for how things work. Gray's readers love how he always brings the perfect...
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87
This book combines the enlarged and corrected editions of both volumes on classical physics stemming from Thirrings famous course. The treatment of classical dynamical systems uses analysis on manifolds to provide the mathematical setting for discussions of Hamiltonian systems, canonical transformations, constants of motion, and perturbation theory. Problems discussed include: nonrelativistic motion of particles and systems, relativistic motion in electromagnetic and gravitational fields, and the structure of black holes. The treatment of classical fields uses the language of differential... more

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88

Kinematics and Dynamics of Machinery

Kinematics and Dynamics of Machinery teaches readers how to analyze the motion of machines and mechanisms. Coverage of a broad range of machines and mechanisms with practical applications given top consideration. Mechanisms and Machines. Motion in Machinery. Velocity Analysis of Mechanisms. Acceleration Analysis of Mechanisms. Cams. Spur Gears. Helical, Worm, and Bevel Gears. Drive Trains. Static-Force Analysis. Dynamic-Force Analysis. Synthesis. Introduction to Robotic Manipulators. less

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89
Featuring state-of-the-art computer based technology throughout, this comprehensive book on classical mechanics bridges the gap between introductory physics and quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics and optics--giving readers a strong basis for their work in applied and pure sciences.KEY TOPICS: Introduces Mathcad, using it in to do mathematical calculations, solve problems, make plots and graphs, and generally provide more in-depth coverage and a better understanding of physics. Pays special attention to such topics of modern interest as nonlinear oscillators, central force... more

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90

Advanced Mechanics of Materials

Building on the success of five previous editions, this new sixth edition continues to present a unified approach to the study of the behavior of structural members and the development of design and failure criteria. The text treats each type of structural member in sufficient detail so that the resulting solutions are directly applicable to real-world problems. New examples for various types of member and a large number of new problems are included. To facilitate the transition from elementary mechanics of materials to advanced topics, a review of the elements of mechanics of materials is... more

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91

Theoretical Mechanics of Particles and Continua

This two-part text fills what has often been a void in the first-year graduate physics curriculum. Through its examination of particles and continua, it supplies a lucid and self-contained account of classical mechanics — which in turn provides a natural framework for introducing many of the advanced mathematical concepts in physics.
The text opens with Newton's laws of motion and systematically develops the dynamics of classical particles, with chapters on basic principles, rotating coordinate systems, lagrangian formalism, small oscillations, dynamics of rigid bodies, and hamiltonian...
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92

Mechanics of Materials

Intended for the core course in Strength of Materials,this text emphasizes problem solving techniques,analysis,and design theories. Well known for its clarity and accuracy,the book also provides a wealth of problems,including at least four computer problems per chapter. Interactive tutorial software is packaged with each book; each tutorial illustrates a specific concept in the text.
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93

Matter and Interactions

Matter and Interactions, 4th Edition offers a modern curriculum for introductory physics (calculus-based). It presents physics the way practicing physicists view their discipline while integrating 20th Century physics and computational physics. The text emphasizes the small number of fundamental principles that underlie the behavior of matter, and models that can explain and predict a wide variety of physical phenomena. Matter and Interactions, 4th Edition will be available as a single volume hardcover text and also two paperback volumes. less

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95

Quantum Mechanics and Experience

The more science tells us about the world, the stranger it looks. Ever since physics first penetrated the atom, early in this century, what it found there has stood as a radical and unanswered challenge to many of our most cherished conceptions of nature. It has literally been called into question since then whether or not there are always objective matters of fact about the whereabouts of subatomic particles, or about the locations of tables and chairs, or even about the very contents of our thoughts. A new kind of uncertainty has become a principle of science.

This book is an...
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96
This introductory text is geared toward engineers, physicists, and applied mathematicians at the advanced undergraduate and graduate levels. It applies the mathematics of Cartesian and general tensors to physical field theories and demonstrates them chiefly in terms of the theory of fluid mechanics. Numerous exercises appear throughout the text. 1962 edition. less

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97
A Nobel-winning physicist argues that fundamental physical laws are found not in the world of atoms, but in the macroscopic world around us
In this age of superstring theories and Big Bang cosmology, we're used to thinking of the unknown as impossibly distant from our everyday lives. But in A Different Universe, Nobel Laureate Robert Laughlin argues that the scientific frontier is right under our fingers. Instead of looking for ultimate theories, Laughlin considers the world of emergent properties-meaning the properties, such as the hardness and shape of a...
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98

Engineering Fluid Mechanics

Connecting the math and theory of fluid mechanics to practical applications can be a difficult process. Engineering Fluid Mechanics builds on the success of previous editions to help engineers learn how to apply concepts by keeping them engaged and active throughout the book. Simple and effective examples show how key equations are utilized in practice, and step-by-step descriptions provide details into the processes that engineers follow. Each chapter also outlines the three most important things they will be able to accomplish once the concepts are learned. With its physical/visual... more

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99
Comprehensive Practice for the Mechanical PE Exam

Practice Problems for the Mechanical Engineering PE Exam contains over 850 problems designed to reinforce your knowledge of the topics presented in the Mechanical Engineering Reference Manual. Over 300 new stand-alone, multiple-choice problems are designed to be solved in six-minute or less. These demonstrate the format of the NCEES Mechanical PE exam, and focus on individual engineering concepts. The remaining 550 problems are longer and more complex, challenging your skills in identifying and applying related...
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Don't have time to read the top Classical Mechanics books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

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  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.