Science by Simulation

Models of Classical Physics is the second volume of Science by Simulation. It is a recipe book of mathematical models that can be enlivened by the transmutation of equations into computer code. In this volume, the examples represent the standard canon of Classical Physics (Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Waves & Optics, Electromagnetism) and are based upon paradigm problems and systems that all pre-university and undergraduate STEM students should have the opportunity to experience and, in time, master.

Rather than the 'what' of Science, this book is aimed at the 'how', readily applied to projects by students and professionals. Written in a friendly style based upon the author's expertise in teaching and pedagogy, this mathematically rigorous book is designed for readers to follow arguments step-by-step with stand-alone chapters (and indeed sections) which can be read independently. This approach will provide a tangible and readily accessible context for the development of a wide range of interconnected mathematical ideas and computing methods that underpin the practice of Science, and Physics in particular.

Request Inspection Copy

Contents:

• Introduction:
  • Problem Solving, Practical Experiments and Computer Simulation
  • Style and Structure
  • Chapter Synopsis
  • Mathematics: The Language of Physics
• Mechanics:
  • Kinematics and Collisions
  • Projectiles
  • Ladders and Barrels Statics Problems
  • Inclined Planes
  • Rolling Spheres and Cylinders
  • Atwood Machines
  • Swinging Doors and Rotating Rigid Bodies
  • Lagrangian Mechanics
• Thermodynamics:
  • Heat Engines
  • Newtonian Cooling
  • Kinetic Theory and Random Walks
  • Boltzmann Statistics
• Waves & Ray Optics:
  • Standing Waves
  • Impedance
  • Reflection and Transmission
  • Refraction
  • Geometric Optics
  • Anamorphic Images
  • Diffraction
  • Doppler Shift and Mach Cone Shock Fronts
  • Kelvin Wedge
  • Simple Harmonic Motion
• Electromagnetism:
  • Power Cables and Resistance Networks
  • Electric and Magnetic Fields
  • Capacitors
  • Curie's Model of Paramagnetism
  • Ising Model of Ferromagnetism
  • Toroidal Inductors
  • Hall Probe
  • Mass Spectrometer
  • Velocity Selector
  • Cyclotron
  • Frequency Response of a Transformer
  • Resonance in LCR Circuits
  • Fresnel Equations
  • Maxwell's Equations and EM Waves
• Appendix:
  • The Calculus of Variations
  • Dispersion Relationship for Waves on the Interface Between Two Fluids

Readership: This textbook is suitable for pre-university and undergraduate students of Physics, Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Materials Science and other related STEM subjects, as well as teachers of these courses. The book will also be of interest to professionals working in STEM industries, particularly those involving the creation of mathematical models of physical systems.