Physics in the Modern World

Physics in the Modern World, Second Edition focuses on the applications of physics in a world dominated by technology and the many ways that physical ideas are manifest in everyday situations, from the operation of rockets and cameras to space travel and X-ray photography. It shows how physical principles bring a pattern of simplicity and continuity to the diverse natural and technological world around us. Automobile air bags, artificial gravity, and pollution control, as well as appliance economics, radar, and other modern phenomena and devices are discussed to emphasize the way that physical principles are applied in today's world. Comprised of 21 chapters, this book begins with an introduction to physical ideas, with particular reference to the basic concepts used in describing and measuring things such as length, time, and mass. The discussion then turns to motion, force, and linear momentum, along with circular motion, torque, and angular momentum. Subsequent chapters focus on gravitation and space travel; energy and electricity; liquids and gases; electromagnetism; heat; waves; electromagnetic radiation; light; atoms; relativity; structure of matter; nuclei and nuclear power; and radiation. Each chapter concludes with a list of exercises that include questions and problems. This monograph is intended for physics students who are specializing in other disciplines.