Advanced University Physics

To move from empirical-based physics to the theoretical abstractness required for advanced physics requires a paradigmatic shift in logic that can challenge even the brightest mind. Grasping the play of phenomena as they are described in introductory compendiums does not necessarily create a foundation that allows for the building of a bridge to the higher levels of theoretical physics. In the first edition of Advanced University Physics, respected physicists Stuart Palmer and Mircea Rogalski built that bridge, and then guided readers across it. Serving as a supplement to the standard advanced physics syllabus, their work provided a succinct review of course material, while encouraging the development of a more cohesive understanding of theoretical physics. Now, after incorporating suggestions from many readers and colleagues, the two authors have revised and updated their original work to produce a second, even more poignant, edition. Succinct, cohesive, and comprehensive, Advanced University Physics, Second Edition brings individuals schooled in the rudiments of physics to theoretical fluency. In a progression of concise chapters, the text clarifies concepts from Newtonian Laws to nuclear dynamics, while introducing and building upon the theoretical logic required to operate in the world of contemporary physics. Some chapters have been combined to improve relational clarity, and new material has been added to cover the evolving concepts that have emerged over the last decade in this highly fluid field. The authors have also added a substantial amount of relevant problems and at least one pertinent example for every chapter. Those already steeped in physics will continue to find this work to be a useful reference, as the book's 47 chapters provide the opportunity to become refreshed and updated on a great number of easily identified topics.

Table of Contents:
Introduction. Principles of Newtonian Mechanics. Angular Momentum. Principles of Special Relativity. Relativistic Laws of Motion. Continuum Mechanics. The Laws of Thermodynamics. Thermodynamics Functions. Perfect and Real Gases. Phase Transitions. Electrostatics. Magnetic Induction. Magnetic Fields. Maxwell's Equations. Wave Equations. Wave Propagation. Wave Energy. Interference. Diffraction. Polarization. Reflection and Refraction. Waves in Anisotropic Media. Absorption and Dispersion. Generalized Mechanics. Principles of Statistical Mechanics. Statistical Thermodynamics. Thermal Radiation. Wave Mechanics. Postulates of Quantum Mechanics. The Schrodringer Picture. Orbital Angular Momentum. One-Electron Atoms. Matrix Mechanics of Angular Momentum. The Spinning Electron. Systems of Identical Particles. Multielectron Atoms. Atomic Radiation. Systems of Atoms. Structure of Solids. Free Electrons in Solids. Electronic Energy Bands. Semiconductor Physics. Solid State Electronics. Solid State Magnetism. Superconductivity. Nuclear Structure. Nuclear Dynamics. Appendices. Hints. Answers. Index.

About the Author :
Mircea S. Rogalski, Stuart B. Palmer

Review :
"The book is considerable in its topic coverage and capacity … . Presentational style is not at all intimidating despite some extremely specialised content and is seen by the reader as both eloquent and succinct. This level 2 or 3 degree text has substantive coverage across the topics … Formulation and ordering of chapters is also well considered and moves cogently in a well-stated direction … It is certainly clear that both Rogalski and Palmer are very experienced university teachers and active researchers, which helps to invigorate the book. The authors do an outstanding job of contextualising the field and the reading is made ever more engrossing and unambiguous by the clever use of elucidative graphs and simple but demonstrative schematics. … students and advanced-research readers will enjoy the text and see its wider merits. … One significant merit of this book is that is contains all the taught or desired elements that are not presented under a single cover elsewhere and this is rarely found. This book is a satisfyingly good read because of its diversity of topics, praise-worthy précis-style clear explanatory text, and simple delineatory diagrams. The book is also valuable in that just sufficient depth is given to most topics and both maths content and theoretical explanation and background are not over-the-top. … the content is excellent and there are certainly no shortfalls in terms of providing worked examples … recommended for primarily M-level study or for final year (year 2 on some courses) degree physics." —Reviews, Volume 10, Issue 2, December 2009