Physics

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Physics is designed to give readers conceptual insight and create active involvement in the learning process. The book provides a suite of pedagogical tools that give readers an active role in the learning and problem-solving process. This comprehensive book helps readers draw the situation described in the problem statement, visualize the processes taking place, identify and label important quantities, and set up coordinate axes. Shows readers how to analyze the problem, identify the key physical principles at work, and devise a plan for obtaining the solution. Contains a unique 2-column format. Appropriate for readers interested in Algebra-based Physics.

FROM THE CRITICS

Booknews

This text is designed to help students improve their conceptual understanding of physics hand in hand with the development of their problem-solving skills. Walker (Washington State U.) replaces traditional examples with an integrated set of learning tools, including fully worked and active examples that focus on basic strategies and thought processes, conceptual checkpoints, and exercises. The 32 chapters cover mechanics, thermal physics, electromagnetism, light and optics, and modern physics. Illustrated with color charts and photographs. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

ACCREDITATION

James S. Walker obtained his Ph.D. in theoretical physics from the University of Washington in 1978. He subsequently served as a post-doc at the University of Pennsylvania, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and the University of California at San Diego before joining the physics faculty at Washington State University in 1983. Professor Walker's research interests include statistical mechanics, critical phenomena, and chaos. His many publications on the application of renormalization-group theory to systems ranging from absorbed mono-layers to binary-fluid mixtures have appeared in Physical Review, Physical Review Letters, Physica, and a host of other publications. He has also participated in observations on the summit of Mauna Kea, looking for evidence of extra-solar planets.

Jim Walker likes to work with students at all levels, from judging elementary school science fairs to writing research papers with graduate students, and has taught introductory physics for many years. His enjoyment of this course and his empathy for students have earned him a reputation as an innovative, enthusiastic, and effective teacher. Jim's educational publications include "Reappearing Phases" (Scientific American, May 1987) as well as articles in the American Journal of Physics and The Physics Teacher. In recognition of his contributions to the teaching of physics, Jim was recently named Boeing Distinguished Professor of Science and Mathematics Education.