Mathematics for Physics

by Woolfson, Michael M.; Woolfson, Malcolm S.

• ISBN13: 9780199289295
• ISBN10: 0199289298
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2007-02-03
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

Mathematics is the essential language of science. It enables us to describe abstract physical concepts, and to apply these concepts in practical ways. Yet mathematical skills and concepts are an aspect of physics that many students fear the most. Mathematics for Physics recognizes the challenges faced by students in equipping themselves with the maths skills necessary to gain a full understanding of physics. Working from basic yet fundamental principles, the book builds the students' confidence by leading them through the subject in a steady, progressive way. As its primary aim, Mathematics for Physics shows the relevance of mathematics to the study of physics. Its unique approach demonstrates the application of mathematical concepts alongside the development of the mathematical theory. This stimulating and motivating approach helps students to master the maths and see its application in the context of physics in one seamless learning experience. Mathematics is a subject mastered most readily through active learning. Mathematics for Physics features both print and online support, with many in-text exercises and end-of-chapter problems, and web-based computer programs, to both stimulate learning and build understanding. Mathematics for Physics is the perfect introduction to the essential mathematical concepts which all physics students should master.

Author Biography

Michael M. Woolfson is Emeritus Professor of Theoretical Physics, Department of Physics, University of York, UK.
Dr Malcolm S. Woolfson is a Lecturer in Signal Processing, School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Nottingham, UK.

Table of Contents

Preface

Useful formulae and relationships

Dimensions and dimensional analysis

Sequences and series

Differentiation

Integration

Complex numbers

Ordinary differential equations

Matrices I and determinants

Vector algebra

Conic sections and orbits

Partial differentiation

Probability and statistics

Coordinate systems and multiple integration

Distributions I

Hyperbolic functions

Vector analysis

Fourier analysis

Introduction to digital signal processing

Numerical methods for ordinary differential equations

Applications of partial differential equations

Quantum mechanic I: The Schrodinger wave equation and observations

The Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution

The Monte-Carlo method

Matrices II

Quantum mechanics II: Angular momentum and spin

Sampling theory

Straight-line relationships and the linear correlation coefficient

Interpolation

Quadrature

Linear equations

The numerical solution of equations

Signals and noise

Digital filters

Introduction to estimation theory

Linear programming and optimization

Laplace transforms

Networks

Simulation with particles

Chaos and physical calculations

Appendices

Solutions to Exercises and Problems

Index

Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.