Abstract
UNTIL the student has acquired a certain manipulative dexterity, it is impossible to preserve a proper continuity of thought in the development of the application of infinitesimal theory of mechanics or any other applied science. The authors are therefore justified in assuming that the reader comes to this subject equipped with a thorough working knowledge of the methods of the calculus. In the opening chapter a good account is given of the means for obtaining centres of gravity and moments of inertia of plane and solid figures; no mention is made, however, of the application of orthogonal projection to the theory of the centroid. Chapters ii.–iv. deal with the principles of rectilinear and curvilinear motion in a most attractive fashion; as an example, the motion typified by x=a cos kt is considered, the equation d2x/dt2=-k2x is deduced, and the properties of harmonic motion are then obtained in a simple fashion; a similar treatment is applied to damped vibrations. This is followed by an exposition of work, energy, and impulse. Chapters vi.–ix. discuss the motion of a particle under constant forces, central forces, in a harmonic field, and against a resisting medium. The, volume closes with a brief account of the equations of rigid dynamics and the principles of equilibrium of a coplanar system of forces with special reference to the catenary.
Theoretical Mechanics.
By P. F. Smith W. R. Longley. (Ginn.) Price 10s. 6d.
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Theoretical Mechanics . Nature 85, 169 (1910). https://doi.org/10.1038/085169a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/085169a0