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Principles of Mechanics
This volume introduces students and researchers to the fundamental concepts of mechanics, the branch of physics that focuses on the movement and motion of physical objects under a force and when at rest, using easy-to-understand language. The entries in this work provide a solid background in classical mechanics, mechanical engineering, and quantum mechanics and help readers develop a deeper and meaningful understanding of this important and evolving topic.
Mechanics is the branch of technology and applied science that studies Newtonian physics, or how force affects matter under Newton’s laws of motion and gravity. It also investigates the technical and environmental variables involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of physical mechanisms functioning under the influence or absence of gravity, including the bodies of living beings.
Throughout the broad spectrum of applications, such principles as Newton’s three laws, the behavior of gases, and hydraulics are fundamental. This volume presents basic physical principles, hydraulics, mechanical engineering in history, essential and specialized tools, design principles and many other topics, allowing readers to acquire a sound knowledge base for their understanding of mechanics in the real world.
This edition includes entries arranged alphabetically to assist in finding desired topical information easily. Entries include a Fields of Study section related to the particular topic; an Abstract that provides a brief, concrete summary of the topic; Key Concepts important to a proper understanding of the topic; a detailed essay that provides an explanation of the background and significance of the topic; and Further Reading lists of up-to-date references that relate to each entry.
Entries in Principles of Mechanics range from one to five pages in length. Topics discussed include:
- Mechanical design
- Power transmission systems
- Gears, pulleys and levers
- Micromechanics
- Nanotechnology
- Strengths of materials
- Physical principles
- Composite materials in mechanics
- Space applications
- Historical events
- Historical personages
and other relevant topics.
The volume also includes a number of helpful appendixes, including:
- A Glossary that defines all of the key specialized terms that are used throughout the book
- A comprehensive general Bibliography and list of Further Reading entries, comprising the works authors drew upon in composing their entries as well as sources for further study
- A Subject Index that offers multiple points of entry for readers
Mechanics is a relatively narrow field in principle, yet it has very broad applications in everyday life, ranging from the local mechanic who repairs your car to the nanomechanical engineer designing mechanical devices that can only be seen with a microscope.
With approximately 125 individual essays, this new volume gives readers a solid overview of mechanics and the major concepts and contemporary issues surrounding the role of mechanical theory in the world. This volume will be an invaluable resource for students at the high school and undergraduate levels, especially those considering careers relevant to mechanics.
