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 Customer Reviews
An Excellent Beginners Guide to Maxwell's equations, 07 Dec 2008
I teach physics and was interested in a way in which the Maxwell equations could be broken down so they can be understood most easily. A lot of the time students struggle with conceptualising this subject and the maths can seem a little abstract or unnecessary. The two most common texts for undergraduates on the subject are Classical Electrodynamics by John David Jackson and Classical Electromagnetism by Jerrold Franklin. Although both these books are excellent and are leading textbooks in the subject there is a requirement of high mathematical knowledge and ability to conceptualise abstract concepts. This Book plays a major part in helping you get those skills while at the same time teaching with good effect Gauss's laws, Faradays law and the Maxwell equations. Every part of every equation is broken down and explained conceptually and mathematically teaching you about areas such as closed integrals and dot and cross products. This book is an invaluable part of any physics student's armoury when attempting to understand classical electro magnetism. The only reason why I have not given this book 5 stars is because the book is quite short at 134 pages and could have gone a lot further with the excellent logical and methodical route that it takes.
Pete B, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this book primarily out of interest and with a view of getting a better understanding of this difficult subject - generally surrounding the concepts and the mathematics involved. The author breaks down each of maxwell's equation, explaining each part and then giving examples to back up the theory. This is not for beginners but would help undergraduate students in Physics or Electrical/Electronic Engineering. It does a great job!
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Customer Reviews
An Excellent Beginners Guide to Maxwell's equations, 07 Dec 2008
I teach physics and was interested in a way in which the Maxwell equations could be broken down so they can be understood most easily. A lot of the time students struggle with conceptualising this subject and the maths can seem a little abstract or unnecessary. The two most common texts for undergraduates on the subject are Classical Electrodynamics by John David Jackson and Classical Electromagnetism by Jerrold Franklin. Although both these books are excellent and are leading textbooks in the subject there is a requirement of high mathematical knowledge and ability to conceptualise abstract concepts. This Book plays a major part in helping you get those skills while at the same time teaching with good effect Gauss's laws, Faradays law and the Maxwell equations. Every part of every equation is broken down and explained conceptually and mathematically teaching you about areas such as closed integrals and dot and cross products. This book is an invaluable part of any physics student's armoury when attempting to understand classical electro magnetism. The only reason why I have not given this book 5 stars is because the book is quite short at 134 pages and could have gone a lot further with the excellent logical and methodical route that it takes.
Pete B, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this book primarily out of interest and with a view of getting a better understanding of this difficult subject - generally surrounding the concepts and the mathematics involved. The author breaks down each of maxwell's equation, explaining each part and then giving examples to back up the theory. This is not for beginners but would help undergraduate students in Physics or Electrical/Electronic Engineering. It does a great job!
Well written, marvellously comprehensive..., 04 Nov 2008
I am a games developer and I was looking for a good textbook that I could turn to for the math involved in advanced rendering and physics. I am very pleased to have bought the third edition of this excellent work. For me this book is an absolute winner. It covers a huge range of topics, from quadratic equations to spherical harmonics, differential equations and quantum operators; yet the treatment does not feel hurried and terse like it does in some other books that cover such a scope (Kreyszig for example). It's written in a clear and engaging style and the print is not small - presumably profquantum is refrerring to an earlier edition in his/her review.
Run, don't walk, to buy this book
best maths textbook for physicists, 22 Mar 2007
This book is simply the best. It is lightyears better than Boas (the most often suggested alternative), and it basically contains all the maths You'll ever need in all but the most theoretical undergraduate course of any natural science (well, except maths, if that's a science ;-) ).
In fact, now slowly finishing my PhD in physics, I think I can say that unless You are doing actual theoretical/mathematical physics, it probably contains all or most of the maths You'll need for the rest of Your life.
Simply the best.Forget the rest., 10 Sep 2005
This book is a watershed in the teaching of calculus and the essential mathematical methods required by undergraduate mathematicians, physicists and engineers.It will easily become the standard reference for methods courses , if it has not done so already.It starts right at the beginning with a refresher in basic calculus etc , and then proceeds to carefully develop multi-variable calculus, linear differential equations,complex variables, calculus of variations , tensors, representations, numerical analysis and prob&stats.What I really like about this book is the way general curvilinear coordinate transformations are explained at the end of the vector calculus section, to which you can refer when reading the chapter on tensors.I know of no other methods textbook which introduces tensors like this:many lesser texts (and that means all the rest) seem to feel that it is sufficient to teach people about raising indices, and give readers some vague hand-waving about coordinate transformations.This book is one to buy for this alone, as you will then have a firm grasp of why the tensor notation is like it is.Indeed, I would say that this book makes most other methods textbooks look the half-arsed disgrace that they are.Jacobians could be more carefully introduced, and the writing style can be a little Enid Blyton (phrases like 'one can consult the many excellent textbooks on such and such' can become rather monotonous), but apart from tiny niggles like this, this really is a truly comprehensive methods book, which really starts from the beginning and takes you well into the foothills of genuinely advanced techniques, and which you will keep through your professional life.An instant classic.
Valuable and readable, 25 Apr 2005
This book is not only an absolutely fantastic guide for physicists and engineers, but also for mathematics students themselves.
It covers the entire first year course at my university, and probably bits of the second year as well. It truely is the Bible!
The Good Book..., 24 May 2004
We know it as 'The Bible'. 'Nuff said.
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Customer Reviews
An Excellent Beginners Guide to Maxwell's equations, 07 Dec 2008
I teach physics and was interested in a way in which the Maxwell equations could be broken down so they can be understood most easily. A lot of the time students struggle with conceptualising this subject and the maths can seem a little abstract or unnecessary. The two most common texts for undergraduates on the subject are Classical Electrodynamics by John David Jackson and Classical Electromagnetism by Jerrold Franklin. Although both these books are excellent and are leading textbooks in the subject there is a requirement of high mathematical knowledge and ability to conceptualise abstract concepts. This Book plays a major part in helping you get those skills while at the same time teaching with good effect Gauss's laws, Faradays law and the Maxwell equations. Every part of every equation is broken down and explained conceptually and mathematically teaching you about areas such as closed integrals and dot and cross products. This book is an invaluable part of any physics student's armoury when attempting to understand classical electro magnetism. The only reason why I have not given this book 5 stars is because the book is quite short at 134 pages and could have gone a lot further with the excellent logical and methodical route that it takes. Pete B, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this book primarily out of interest and with a view of getting a better understanding of this difficult subject - generally surrounding the concepts and the mathematics involved. The author breaks down each of maxwell's equation, explaining each part and then giving examples to back up the theory. This is not for beginners but would help undergraduate students in Physics or Electrical/Electronic Engineering. It does a great job! Well written, marvellously comprehensive..., 04 Nov 2008
I am a games developer and I was looking for a good textbook that I could turn to for the math involved in advanced rendering and physics. I am very pleased to have bought the third edition of this excellent work. For me this book is an absolute winner. It covers a huge range of topics, from quadratic equations to spherical harmonics, differential equations and quantum operators; yet the treatment does not feel hurried and terse like it does in some other books that cover such a scope (Kreyszig for example). It's written in a clear and engaging style and the print is not small - presumably profquantum is refrerring to an earlier edition in his/her review.
Run, don't walk, to buy this book best maths textbook for physicists, 22 Mar 2007
This book is simply the best. It is lightyears better than Boas (the most often suggested alternative), and it basically contains all the maths You'll ever need in all but the most theoretical undergraduate course of any natural science (well, except maths, if that's a science ;-) ).
In fact, now slowly finishing my PhD in physics, I think I can say that unless You are doing actual theoretical/mathematical physics, it probably contains all or most of the maths You'll need for the rest of Your life. Simply the best.Forget the rest., 10 Sep 2005
This book is a watershed in the teaching of calculus and the essential mathematical methods required by undergraduate mathematicians, physicists and engineers.It will easily become the standard reference for methods courses , if it has not done so already.It starts right at the beginning with a refresher in basic calculus etc , and then proceeds to carefully develop multi-variable calculus, linear differential equations,complex variables, calculus of variations , tensors, representations, numerical analysis and prob&stats.What I really like about this book is the way general curvilinear coordinate transformations are explained at the end of the vector calculus section, to which you can refer when reading the chapter on tensors.I know of no other methods textbook which introduces tensors like this:many lesser texts (and that means all the rest) seem to feel that it is sufficient to teach people about raising indices, and give readers some vague hand-waving about coordinate transformations.This book is one to buy for this alone, as you will then have a firm grasp of why the tensor notation is like it is.Indeed, I would say that this book makes most other methods textbooks look the half-arsed disgrace that they are.Jacobians could be more carefully introduced, and the writing style can be a little Enid Blyton (phrases like 'one can consult the many excellent textbooks on such and such' can become rather monotonous), but apart from tiny niggles like this, this really is a truly comprehensive methods book, which really starts from the beginning and takes you well into the foothills of genuinely advanced techniques, and which you will keep through your professional life.An instant classic. Valuable and readable, 25 Apr 2005
This book is not only an absolutely fantastic guide for physicists and engineers, but also for mathematics students themselves.
It covers the entire first year course at my university, and probably bits of the second year as well. It truely is the Bible! The Good Book..., 24 May 2004
We know it as 'The Bible'. 'Nuff said. why to not how to, 08 Jan 2009
If you just want to know how to do something in mathematics this is not the book for you. Consider instead the excellent strode titles Engineering Mathematics 5th ed: Programmes and Problems and Advanced Engineering Mathematics
However if you want to know why then its broad range and depth make an excellent first stop for the curious. Very Useful, 05 Aug 2008
This was recommended to me by a physicist in the year above me at Oxford - have successfully used it for a year in Physics, and from next year's syllabus it should be fine for the second year too. It was set at the right level and does everything rigorously (for a non-mathematician), leaving no confusing contradictions when you learn more advanced topics. The explanations and questions are all well thought out for developing an understanding of the topics. Completely Overrated, 23 Jun 2008
I was told by my maths lecturer to buy this book for the first year of maths for chemistry at Oxford. In my entire year, I have not used this book once so have wasted the best part of £50 on it. Maybe it is better for more advanced courses, but for what I was doing, was a waste of money. Not bad, but better titles out there, 17 Dec 2005
This book is fairly comprehensive and covers all the main areas of the first year maths sylabus (I'm studying Physics). However, I found the style of this book made it hard to read and understand, and at times the text was unclear. A much better book, im my opinion, is "Mathematical Methods for Science Students" by Stephenson, which is very concise and deals with most of the material in a logical and well thought out manner. Some people like it, others don't, 10 Jul 2005
This book is a classic Jekyl and Hyde book for the student population - some like it, some don't. I personally do. It doesn't cover as much advanced material as you would like (I'm doing a mathematical physics degree at Imperial for reference), but it does occasionally throw you some useful technique that you haven't encountered before (courses can't cover everything you know), along with lots of practise questions. I'm not sure if this book would be useful in helping you during your course because it never goes into much explanatory detail: I think this is why some people hate it so much. I used the book as 'supplementary' reading in the holidays merely because I was interested. This, I guess, is what the book was made for and is where it excels - as a SUPPLEMENTARY RESOURCE for those who are interested. Some people say the book is too incomprehensible. I've seen much worse, but you have to be comfortable with maths to enjoy this book because it's aimed at the emerging theorist or someone fluent in mathematics. Again, people find this book hard because they are expecting it to be something that it's not. Don't expect to learn a new topic from scratch from this book - it's not detailed enough for that, expect it to develop subjects that you've hade a vague aquaintance with before. In summary, if you love maths, buy this book. If you see maths as a chore, there are better books for your purpose.
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Customer Reviews
An Excellent Beginners Guide to Maxwell's equations, 07 Dec 2008
I teach physics and was interested in a way in which the Maxwell equations could be broken down so they can be understood most easily. A lot of the time students struggle with conceptualising this subject and the maths can seem a little abstract or unnecessary. The two most common texts for undergraduates on the subject are Classical Electrodynamics by John David Jackson and Classical Electromagnetism by Jerrold Franklin. Although both these books are excellent and are leading textbooks in the subject there is a requirement of high mathematical knowledge and ability to conceptualise abstract concepts. This Book plays a major part in helping you get those skills while at the same time teaching with good effect Gauss's laws, Faradays law and the Maxwell equations. Every part of every equation is broken down and explained conceptually and mathematically teaching you about areas such as closed integrals and dot and cross products. This book is an invaluable part of any physics student's armoury when attempting to understand classical electro magnetism. The only reason why I have not given this book 5 stars is because the book is quite short at 134 pages and could have gone a lot further with the excellent logical and methodical route that it takes. Pete B, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this book primarily out of interest and with a view of getting a better understanding of this difficult subject - generally surrounding the concepts and the mathematics involved. The author breaks down each of maxwell's equation, explaining each part and then giving examples to back up the theory. This is not for beginners but would help undergraduate students in Physics or Electrical/Electronic Engineering. It does a great job! Well written, marvellously comprehensive..., 04 Nov 2008
I am a games developer and I was looking for a good textbook that I could turn to for the math involved in advanced rendering and physics. I am very pleased to have bought the third edition of this excellent work. For me this book is an absolute winner. It covers a huge range of topics, from quadratic equations to spherical harmonics, differential equations and quantum operators; yet the treatment does not feel hurried and terse like it does in some other books that cover such a scope (Kreyszig for example). It's written in a clear and engaging style and the print is not small - presumably profquantum is refrerring to an earlier edition in his/her review.
Run, don't walk, to buy this book best maths textbook for physicists, 22 Mar 2007
This book is simply the best. It is lightyears better than Boas (the most often suggested alternative), and it basically contains all the maths You'll ever need in all but the most theoretical undergraduate course of any natural science (well, except maths, if that's a science ;-) ).
In fact, now slowly finishing my PhD in physics, I think I can say that unless You are doing actual theoretical/mathematical physics, it probably contains all or most of the maths You'll need for the rest of Your life. Simply the best.Forget the rest., 10 Sep 2005
This book is a watershed in the teaching of calculus and the essential mathematical methods required by undergraduate mathematicians, physicists and engineers.It will easily become the standard reference for methods courses , if it has not done so already.It starts right at the beginning with a refresher in basic calculus etc , and then proceeds to carefully develop multi-variable calculus, linear differential equations,complex variables, calculus of variations , tensors, representations, numerical analysis and prob&stats.What I really like about this book is the way general curvilinear coordinate transformations are explained at the end of the vector calculus section, to which you can refer when reading the chapter on tensors.I know of no other methods textbook which introduces tensors like this:many lesser texts (and that means all the rest) seem to feel that it is sufficient to teach people about raising indices, and give readers some vague hand-waving about coordinate transformations.This book is one to buy for this alone, as you will then have a firm grasp of why the tensor notation is like it is.Indeed, I would say that this book makes most other methods textbooks look the half-arsed disgrace that they are.Jacobians could be more carefully introduced, and the writing style can be a little Enid Blyton (phrases like 'one can consult the many excellent textbooks on such and such' can become rather monotonous), but apart from tiny niggles like this, this really is a truly comprehensive methods book, which really starts from the beginning and takes you well into the foothills of genuinely advanced techniques, and which you will keep through your professional life.An instant classic. Valuable and readable, 25 Apr 2005
This book is not only an absolutely fantastic guide for physicists and engineers, but also for mathematics students themselves.
It covers the entire first year course at my university, and probably bits of the second year as well. It truely is the Bible! The Good Book..., 24 May 2004
We know it as 'The Bible'. 'Nuff said. why to not how to, 08 Jan 2009
If you just want to know how to do something in mathematics this is not the book for you. Consider instead the excellent strode titles Engineering Mathematics 5th ed: Programmes and Problems and Advanced Engineering Mathematics
However if you want to know why then its broad range and depth make an excellent first stop for the curious. Very Useful, 05 Aug 2008
This was recommended to me by a physicist in the year above me at Oxford - have successfully used it for a year in Physics, and from next year's syllabus it should be fine for the second year too. It was set at the right level and does everything rigorously (for a non-mathematician), leaving no confusing contradictions when you learn more advanced topics. The explanations and questions are all well thought out for developing an understanding of the topics. Completely Overrated, 23 Jun 2008
I was told by my maths lecturer to buy this book for the first year of maths for chemistry at Oxford. In my entire year, I have not used this book once so have wasted the best part of £50 on it. Maybe it is better for more advanced courses, but for what I was doing, was a waste of money. Not bad, but better titles out there, 17 Dec 2005
This book is fairly comprehensive and covers all the main areas of the first year maths sylabus (I'm studying Physics). However, I found the style of this book made it hard to read and understand, and at times the text was unclear. A much better book, im my opinion, is "Mathematical Methods for Science Students" by Stephenson, which is very concise and deals with most of the material in a logical and well thought out manner. Some people like it, others don't, 10 Jul 2005
This book is a classic Jekyl and Hyde book for the student population - some like it, some don't. I personally do. It doesn't cover as much advanced material as you would like (I'm doing a mathematical physics degree at Imperial for reference), but it does occasionally throw you some useful technique that you haven't encountered before (courses can't cover everything you know), along with lots of practise questions. I'm not sure if this book would be useful in helping you during your course because it never goes into much explanatory detail: I think this is why some people hate it so much. I used the book as 'supplementary' reading in the holidays merely because I was interested. This, I guess, is what the book was made for and is where it excels - as a SUPPLEMENTARY RESOURCE for those who are interested. Some people say the book is too incomprehensible. I've seen much worse, but you have to be comfortable with maths to enjoy this book because it's aimed at the emerging theorist or someone fluent in mathematics. Again, people find this book hard because they are expecting it to be something that it's not. Don't expect to learn a new topic from scratch from this book - it's not detailed enough for that, expect it to develop subjects that you've hade a vague aquaintance with before. In summary, if you love maths, buy this book. If you see maths as a chore, there are better books for your purpose.
A Marvellous Book, 31 Jul 2007
I'm an independent maths tutor and one of my students (in fact studying for an economics degree) asked me to find a book that would give him a good grounding in maths (up through A Level to undergraduate standard). Trying to find a book that they could work from on their own was proving to be a tall order until I came across this one. This is a pretty hefty tome but it is very well laid out and very well written - as if the author was talking to you directly but without being either patronising or silly (as these books tend to be if the author tries a "chatty" style, for some reason). In fact my student thought this book so good when I lent it to them that they bought it off me and they haven't regretted it. So this review is really two very strong recommendations in one! An excellent buy for an A/S level and first year undergraduate student.
Excellent for those begining or brushing up on basics., 15 Apr 2001
The book begins with very simple priciples including simple algebra and dealing with fractions. From here it builds up on to more complex subject matter. Plenty of examples are given and exercises and summarys conclude each chapter, solutions are also provided. Those who have a limited knowledge of maths will find this book useful, as will those who are a little too used to using a calculator...it is exteremly helpful in the fields it covers. Perfect for those studying foundation maths, and would make a good companion for a more advanced, degree level textbook.
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Customer Reviews
An Excellent Beginners Guide to Maxwell's equations, 07 Dec 2008
I teach physics and was interested in a way in which the Maxwell equations could be broken down so they can be understood most easily. A lot of the time students struggle with conceptualising this subject and the maths can seem a little abstract or unnecessary. The two most common texts for undergraduates on the subject are Classical Electrodynamics by John David Jackson and Classical Electromagnetism by Jerrold Franklin. Although both these books are excellent and are leading textbooks in the subject there is a requirement of high mathematical knowledge and ability to conceptualise abstract concepts. This Book plays a major part in helping you get those skills while at the same time teaching with good effect Gauss's laws, Faradays law and the Maxwell equations. Every part of every equation is broken down and explained conceptually and mathematically teaching you about areas such as closed integrals and dot and cross products. This book is an invaluable part of any physics student's armoury when attempting to understand classical electro magnetism. The only reason why I have not given this book 5 stars is because the book is quite short at 134 pages and could have gone a lot further with the excellent logical and methodical route that it takes. Pete B, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this book primarily out of interest and with a view of getting a better understanding of this difficult subject - generally surrounding the concepts and the mathematics involved. The author breaks down each of maxwell's equation, explaining each part and then giving examples to back up the theory. This is not for beginners but would help undergraduate students in Physics or Electrical/Electronic Engineering. It does a great job! Well written, marvellously comprehensive..., 04 Nov 2008
I am a games developer and I was looking for a good textbook that I could turn to for the math involved in advanced rendering and physics. I am very pleased to have bought the third edition of this excellent work. For me this book is an absolute winner. It covers a huge range of topics, from quadratic equations to spherical harmonics, differential equations and quantum operators; yet the treatment does not feel hurried and terse like it does in some other books that cover such a scope (Kreyszig for example). It's written in a clear and engaging style and the print is not small - presumably profquantum is refrerring to an earlier edition in his/her review.
Run, don't walk, to buy this book best maths textbook for physicists, 22 Mar 2007
This book is simply the best. It is lightyears better than Boas (the most often suggested alternative), and it basically contains all the maths You'll ever need in all but the most theoretical undergraduate course of any natural science (well, except maths, if that's a science ;-) ).
In fact, now slowly finishing my PhD in physics, I think I can say that unless You are doing actual theoretical/mathematical physics, it probably contains all or most of the maths You'll need for the rest of Your life. Simply the best.Forget the rest., 10 Sep 2005
This book is a watershed in the teaching of calculus and the essential mathematical methods required by undergraduate mathematicians, physicists and engineers.It will easily become the standard reference for methods courses , if it has not done so already.It starts right at the beginning with a refresher in basic calculus etc , and then proceeds to carefully develop multi-variable calculus, linear differential equations,complex variables, calculus of variations , tensors, representations, numerical analysis and prob&stats.What I really like about this book is the way general curvilinear coordinate transformations are explained at the end of the vector calculus section, to which you can refer when reading the chapter on tensors.I know of no other methods textbook which introduces tensors like this:many lesser texts (and that means all the rest) seem to feel that it is sufficient to teach people about raising indices, and give readers some vague hand-waving about coordinate transformations.This book is one to buy for this alone, as you will then have a firm grasp of why the tensor notation is like it is.Indeed, I would say that this book makes most other methods textbooks look the half-arsed disgrace that they are.Jacobians could be more carefully introduced, and the writing style can be a little Enid Blyton (phrases like 'one can consult the many excellent textbooks on such and such' can become rather monotonous), but apart from tiny niggles like this, this really is a truly comprehensive methods book, which really starts from the beginning and takes you well into the foothills of genuinely advanced techniques, and which you will keep through your professional life.An instant classic. Valuable and readable, 25 Apr 2005
This book is not only an absolutely fantastic guide for physicists and engineers, but also for mathematics students themselves.
It covers the entire first year course at my university, and probably bits of the second year as well. It truely is the Bible! The Good Book..., 24 May 2004
We know it as 'The Bible'. 'Nuff said. why to not how to, 08 Jan 2009
If you just want to know how to do something in mathematics this is not the book for you. Consider instead the excellent strode titles Engineering Mathematics 5th ed: Programmes and Problems and Advanced Engineering Mathematics
However if you want to know why then its broad range and depth make an excellent first stop for the curious. Very Useful, 05 Aug 2008
This was recommended to me by a physicist in the year above me at Oxford - have successfully used it for a year in Physics, and from next year's syllabus it should be fine for the second year too. It was set at the right level and does everything rigorously (for a non-mathematician), leaving no confusing contradictions when you learn more advanced topics. The explanations and questions are all well thought out for developing an understanding of the topics. Completely Overrated, 23 Jun 2008
I was told by my maths lecturer to buy this book for the first year of maths for chemistry at Oxford. In my entire year, I have not used this book once so have wasted the best part of £50 on it. Maybe it is better for more advanced courses, but for what I was doing, was a waste of money. Not bad, but better titles out there, 17 Dec 2005
This book is fairly comprehensive and covers all the main areas of the first year maths sylabus (I'm studying Physics). However, I found the style of this book made it hard to read and understand, and at times the text was unclear. A much better book, im my opinion, is "Mathematical Methods for Science Students" by Stephenson, which is very concise and deals with most of the material in a logical and well thought out manner. Some people like it, others don't, 10 Jul 2005
This book is a classic Jekyl and Hyde book for the student population - some like it, some don't. I personally do. It doesn't cover as much advanced material as you would like (I'm doing a mathematical physics degree at Imperial for reference), but it does occasionally throw you some useful technique that you haven't encountered before (courses can't cover everything you know), along with lots of practise questions. I'm not sure if this book would be useful in helping you during your course because it never goes into much explanatory detail: I think this is why some people hate it so much. I used the book as 'supplementary' reading in the holidays merely because I was interested. This, I guess, is what the book was made for and is where it excels - as a SUPPLEMENTARY RESOURCE for those who are interested. Some people say the book is too incomprehensible. I've seen much worse, but you have to be comfortable with maths to enjoy this book because it's aimed at the emerging theorist or someone fluent in mathematics. Again, people find this book hard because they are expecting it to be something that it's not. Don't expect to learn a new topic from scratch from this book - it's not detailed enough for that, expect it to develop subjects that you've hade a vague aquaintance with before. In summary, if you love maths, buy this book. If you see maths as a chore, there are better books for your purpose.
A Marvellous Book, 31 Jul 2007
I'm an independent maths tutor and one of my students (in fact studying for an economics degree) asked me to find a book that would give him a good grounding in maths (up through A Level to undergraduate standard). Trying to find a book that they could work from on their own was proving to be a tall order until I came across this one. This is a pretty hefty tome but it is very well laid out and very well written - as if the author was talking to you directly but without being either patronising or silly (as these books tend to be if the author tries a "chatty" style, for some reason). In fact my student thought this book so good when I lent it to them that they bought it off me and they haven't regretted it. So this review is really two very strong recommendations in one! An excellent buy for an A/S level and first year undergraduate student.
Excellent for those begining or brushing up on basics., 15 Apr 2001
The book begins with very simple priciples including simple algebra and dealing with fractions. From here it builds up on to more complex subject matter. Plenty of examples are given and exercises and summarys conclude each chapter, solutions are also provided. Those who have a limited knowledge of maths will find this book useful, as will those who are a little too used to using a calculator...it is exteremly helpful in the fields it covers. Perfect for those studying foundation maths, and would make a good companion for a more advanced, degree level textbook.
Beautifully presented, 21 Mar 2007
Its a real pleasure to see a clearly laid out undergraduate-oientated introduction to GR hich is predominantly aimed at those with a mathematical background. Consequently it is uncluttered and easy to follow.Most importantly the guidance notes on the solutions are a dream especially for students self-studying who do not have access to a tutor.
I can see myself using this and referring to it frequently.Definitely an instant favourite. A great start point for further and higher studies in GR and theoretical/mathematical physics.
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Customer Reviews
An Excellent Beginners Guide to Maxwell's equations, 07 Dec 2008
I teach physics and was interested in a way in which the Maxwell equations could be broken down so they can be understood most easily. A lot of the time students struggle with conceptualising this subject and the maths can seem a little abstract or unnecessary. The two most common texts for undergraduates on the subject are Classical Electrodynamics by John David Jackson and Classical Electromagnetism by Jerrold Franklin. Although both these books are excellent and are leading textbooks in the subject there is a requirement of high mathematical knowledge and ability to conceptualise abstract concepts. This Book plays a major part in helping you get those skills while at the same time teaching with good effect Gauss's laws, Faradays law and the Maxwell equations. Every part of every equation is broken down and explained conceptually and mathematically teaching you about areas such as closed integrals and dot and cross products. This book is an invaluable part of any physics student's armoury when attempting to understand classical electro magnetism. The only reason why I have not given this book 5 stars is because the book is quite short at 134 pages and could have gone a lot further with the excellent logical and methodical route that it takes. Pete B, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this book primarily out of interest and with a view of getting a better understanding of this difficult subject - generally surrounding the concepts and the mathematics involved. The author breaks down each of maxwell's equation, explaining each part and then giving examples to back up the theory. This is not for beginners but would help undergraduate students in Physics or Electrical/Electronic Engineering. It does a great job! Well written, marvellously comprehensive..., 04 Nov 2008
I am a games developer and I was looking for a good textbook that I could turn to for the math involved in advanced rendering and physics. I am very pleased to have bought the third edition of this excellent work. For me this book is an absolute winner. It covers a huge range of topics, from quadratic equations to spherical harmonics, differential equations and quantum operators; yet the treatment does not feel hurried and terse like it does in some other books that cover such a scope (Kreyszig for example). It's written in a clear and engaging style and the print is not small - presumably profquantum is refrerring to an earlier edition in his/her review.
Run, don't walk, to buy this book best maths textbook for physicists, 22 Mar 2007
This book is simply the best. It is lightyears better than Boas (the most often suggested alternative), and it basically contains all the maths You'll ever need in all but the most theoretical undergraduate course of any natural science (well, except maths, if that's a science ;-) ).
In fact, now slowly finishing my PhD in physics, I think I can say that unless You are doing actual theoretical/mathematical physics, it probably contains all or most of the maths You'll need for the rest of Your life. Simply the best.Forget the rest., 10 Sep 2005
This book is a watershed in the teaching of calculus and the essential mathematical methods required by undergraduate mathematicians, physicists and engineers.It will easily become the standard reference for methods courses , if it has not done so already.It starts right at the beginning with a refresher in basic calculus etc , and then proceeds to carefully develop multi-variable calculus, linear differential equations,complex variables, calculus of variations , tensors, representations, numerical analysis and prob&stats.What I really like about this book is the way general curvilinear coordinate transformations are explained at the end of the vector calculus section, to which you can refer when reading the chapter on tensors.I know of no other methods textbook which introduces tensors like this:many lesser texts (and that means all the rest) seem to feel that it is sufficient to teach people about raising indices, and give readers some vague hand-waving about coordinate transformations.This book is one to buy for this alone, as you will then have a firm grasp of why the tensor notation is like it is.Indeed, I would say that this book makes most other methods textbooks look the half-arsed disgrace that they are.Jacobians could be more carefully introduced, and the writing style can be a little Enid Blyton (phrases like 'one can consult the many excellent textbooks on such and such' can become rather monotonous), but apart from tiny niggles like this, this really is a truly comprehensive methods book, which really starts from the beginning and takes you well into the foothills of genuinely advanced techniques, and which you will keep through your professional life.An instant classic. Valuable and readable, 25 Apr 2005
This book is not only an absolutely fantastic guide for physicists and engineers, but also for mathematics students themselves.
It covers the entire first year course at my university, and probably bits of the second year as well. It truely is the Bible! The Good Book..., 24 May 2004
We know it as 'The Bible'. 'Nuff said. why to not how to, 08 Jan 2009
If you just want to know how to do something in mathematics this is not the book for you. Consider instead the excellent strode titles Engineering Mathematics 5th ed: Programmes and Problems and Advanced Engineering Mathematics
However if you want to know why then its broad range and depth make an excellent first stop for the curious. Very Useful, 05 Aug 2008
This was recommended to me by a physicist in the year above me at Oxford - have successfully used it for a year in Physics, and from next year's syllabus it should be fine for the second year too. It was set at the right level and does everything rigorously (for a non-mathematician), leaving no confusing contradictions when you learn more advanced topics. The explanations and questions are all well thought out for developing an understanding of the topics. Completely Overrated, 23 Jun 2008
I was told by my maths lecturer to buy this book for the first year of maths for chemistry at Oxford. In my entire year, I have not used this book once so have wasted the best part of £50 on it. Maybe it is better for more advanced courses, but for what I was doing, was a waste of money. Not bad, but better titles out there, 17 Dec 2005
This book is fairly comprehensive and covers all the main areas of the first year maths sylabus (I'm studying Physics). However, I found the style of this book made it hard to read and understand, and at times the text was unclear. A much better book, im my opinion, is "Mathematical Methods for Science Students" by Stephenson, which is very concise and deals with most of the material in a logical and well thought out manner. Some people like it, others don't, 10 Jul 2005
This book is a classic Jekyl and Hyde book for the student population - some like it, some don't. I personally do. It doesn't cover as much advanced material as you would like (I'm doing a mathematical physics degree at Imperial for reference), but it does occasionally throw you some useful technique that you haven't encountered before (courses can't cover everything you know), along with lots of practise questions. I'm not sure if this book would be useful in helping you during your course because it never goes into much explanatory detail: I think this is why some people hate it so much. I used the book as 'supplementary' reading in the holidays merely because I was interested. This, I guess, is what the book was made for and is where it excels - as a SUPPLEMENTARY RESOURCE for those who are interested. Some people say the book is too incomprehensible. I've seen much worse, but you have to be comfortable with maths to enjoy this book because it's aimed at the emerging theorist or someone fluent in mathematics. Again, people find this book hard because they are expecting it to be something that it's not. Don't expect to learn a new topic from scratch from this book - it's not detailed enough for that, expect it to develop subjects that you've hade a vague aquaintance with before. In summary, if you love maths, buy this book. If you see maths as a chore, there are better books for your purpose.
A Marvellous Book, 31 Jul 2007
I'm an independent maths tutor and one of my students (in fact studying for an economics degree) asked me to find a book that would give him a good grounding in maths (up through A Level to undergraduate standard). Trying to find a book that they could work from on their own was proving to be a tall order until I came across this one. This is a pretty hefty tome but it is very well laid out and very well written - as if the author was talking to you directly but without being either patronising or silly (as these books tend to be if the author tries a "chatty" style, for some reason). In fact my student thought this book so good when I lent it to them that they bought it off me and they haven't regretted it. So this review is really two very strong recommendations in one! An excellent buy for an A/S level and first year undergraduate student.
Excellent for those begining or brushing up on basics., 15 Apr 2001
The book begins with very simple priciples including simple algebra and dealing with fractions. From here it builds up on to more complex subject matter. Plenty of examples are given and exercises and summarys conclude each chapter, solutions are also provided. Those who have a limited knowledge of maths will find this book useful, as will those who are a little too used to using a calculator...it is exteremly helpful in the fields it covers. Perfect for those studying foundation maths, and would make a good companion for a more advanced, degree level textbook.
Beautifully presented, 21 Mar 2007
Its a real pleasure to see a clearly laid out undergraduate-oientated introduction to GR hich is predominantly aimed at those with a mathematical background. Consequently it is uncluttered and easy to follow.Most importantly the guidance notes on the solutions are a dream especially for students self-studying who do not have access to a tutor.
I can see myself using this and referring to it frequently.Definitely an instant favourite. A great start point for further and higher studies in GR and theoretical/mathematical physics.
fresh paradigms from the old master of chaos, 06 Nov 2008
Framed as the outpouring of insight generated by the novel Goddess 'Apophenia', Pete Carroll's new work is a real gem. Coming from a science background, this is his attempt to create a falisfiable model of why the universe looks the way it does, and just why magick can operate successfully.
In the inimitable Carrollian style we have come to know and love, our author sets out to demolish the edifices of being, consciousness, causality, the big-bang and more. In toppling these ontological Titans Pete discovers a universe of panpsychism and intense meaning. If nothing else this agrees with my own views and is therefore a Good Thing. Pursuing this process through the scientific style of exploration means that quantum physics, special relativity et al show up pretty frequently in the text. If you buy this book expecting lists of planetary correspondence and ritual-by-numbers instructions you're going to be disappointed. However this doesn't mean that this is all physics and no esoterica. Rather the point is that the reading of the universe that the author presents is suffused with magick. (Nevertheless there are some reassuring illustrations of occult entities and one explicit ritual - a rather lovely evocation of the Goddess Apophenia herself).
My reaction in reading this book was one of excitement. The suggestions that Pete advances tickle the mind delightfully. Certainly this isn't Liber Null. It's not a manual of techniques but instead concentrates on theory, yet that doesn't make for a dull read. The theorisation presented here can light the touch paper of a hundred disciplines: cosmology and magick for sure but also Fortean studies, ethnography and especially neuro-biology.
Algebra explodes across the appendices of the book scattering the non-mathematicians towards the Epilogue where things are nicely rounded off in laypersons terms. The truth may well be that we live in vorticitating hypersphere with three dimensional time that, as the author beautifully asserts, "...invites us to become apprentice gods." The very fact that I can now say 'vorticitating hypersphere' and know what that means is a testament to the authors explicatory powers.
The final and perhaps most wonderful thing about The Apophenian is how it demonstrates the development and maturation of Pete Carroll's earlier writing. If nothing else this stands as a testament to the work of an individual (or perhaps conspiracy of selves!) who's magick really does seem to work.
Eight chaospheres out of a possible eight!
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Customer Reviews
An Excellent Beginners Guide to Maxwell's equations, 07 Dec 2008
I teach physics and was interested in a way in which the Maxwell equations could be broken down so they can be understood most easily. A lot of the time students struggle with conceptualising this subject and the maths can seem a little abstract or unnecessary. The two most common texts for undergraduates on the subject are Classical Electrodynamics by John David Jackson and Classical Electromagnetism by Jerrold Franklin. Although both these books are excellent and are leading textbooks in the subject there is a requirement of high mathematical knowledge and ability to conceptualise abstract concepts. This Book plays a major part in helping you get those skills while at the same time teaching with good effect Gauss's laws, Faradays law and the Maxwell equations. Every part of every equation is broken down and explained conceptually and mathematically teaching you about areas such as closed integrals and dot and cross products. This book is an invaluable part of any physics student's armoury when attempting to understand classical electro magnetism. The only reason why I have not given this book 5 stars is because the book is quite short at 134 pages and could have gone a lot further with the excellent logical and methodical route that it takes. Pete B, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this book primarily out of interest and with a view of getting a better understanding of this difficult subject - generally surrounding the concepts and the mathematics involved. The author breaks down each of maxwell's equation, explaining each part and then giving examples to back up the theory. This is not for beginners but would help undergraduate students in Physics or Electrical/Electronic Engineering. It does a great job! Well written, marvellously comprehensive..., 04 Nov 2008
I am a games developer and I was looking for a good textbook that I could turn to for the math involved in advanced rendering and physics. I am very pleased to have bought the third edition of this excellent work. For me this book is an absolute winner. It covers a huge range of topics, from quadratic equations to spherical harmonics, differential equations and quantum operators; yet the treatment does not feel hurried and terse like it does in some other books that cover such a scope (Kreyszig for example). It's written in a clear and engaging style and the print is not small - presumably profquantum is refrerring to an earlier edition in his/her review.
Run, don't walk, to buy this book best maths textbook for physicists, 22 Mar 2007
This book is simply the best. It is lightyears better than Boas (the most often suggested alternative), and it basically contains all the maths You'll ever need in all but the most theoretical undergraduate course of any natural science (well, except maths, if that's a science ;-) ).
In fact, now slowly finishing my PhD in physics, I think I can say that unless You are doing actual theoretical/mathematical physics, it probably contains all or most of the maths You'll need for the rest of Your life. Simply the best.Forget the rest., 10 Sep 2005
This book is a watershed in the teaching of calculus and the essential mathematical methods required by undergraduate mathematicians, physicists and engineers.It will easily become the standard reference for methods courses , if it has not done so already.It starts right at the beginning with a refresher in basic calculus etc , and then proceeds to carefully develop multi-variable calculus, linear differential equations,complex variables, calculus of variations , tensors, representations, numerical analysis and prob&stats.What I really like about this book is the way general curvilinear coordinate transformations are explained at the end of the vector calculus section, to which you can refer when reading the chapter on tensors.I know of no other methods textbook which introduces tensors like this:many lesser texts (and that means all the rest) seem to feel that it is sufficient to teach people about raising indices, and give readers some vague hand-waving about coordinate transformations.This book is one to buy for this alone, as you will then have a firm grasp of why the tensor notation is like it is.Indeed, I would say that this book makes most other methods textbooks look the half-arsed disgrace that they are.Jacobians could be more carefully introduced, and the writing style can be a little Enid Blyton (phrases like 'one can consult the many excellent textbooks on such and such' can become rather monotonous), but apart from tiny niggles like this, this really is a truly comprehensive methods book, which really starts from the beginning and takes you well into the foothills of genuinely advanced techniques, and which you will keep through your professional life.An instant classic. Valuable and readable, 25 Apr 2005
This book is not only an absolutely fantastic guide for physicists and engineers, but also for mathematics students themselves.
It covers the entire first year course at my university, and probably bits of the second year as well. It truely is the Bible! The Good Book..., 24 May 2004
We know it as 'The Bible'. 'Nuff said. why to not how to, 08 Jan 2009
If you just want to know how to do something in mathematics this is not the book for you. Consider instead the excellent strode titles Engineering Mathematics 5th ed: Programmes and Problems and Advanced Engineering Mathematics
However if you want to know why then its broad range and depth make an excellent first stop for the curious. Very Useful, 05 Aug 2008
This was recommended to me by a physicist in the year above me at Oxford - have successfully used it for a year in Physics, and from next year's syllabus it should be fine for the second year too. It was set at the right level and does everything rigorously (for a non-mathematician), leaving no confusing contradictions when you learn more advanced topics. The explanations and questions are all well thought out for developing an understanding of the topics. Completely Overrated, 23 Jun 2008
I was told by my maths lecturer to buy this book for the first year of maths for chemistry at Oxford. In my entire year, I have not used this book once so have wasted the best part of £50 on it. Maybe it is better for more advanced courses, but for what I was doing, was a waste of money. Not bad, but better titles out there, 17 Dec 2005
This book is fairly comprehensive and covers all the main areas of the first year maths sylabus (I'm studying Physics). However, I found the style of this book made it hard to read and understand, and at times the text was unclear. A much better book, im my opinion, is "Mathematical Methods for Science Students" by Stephenson, which is very concise and deals with most of the material in a logical and well thought out manner. Some people like it, others don't, 10 Jul 2005
This book is a classic Jekyl and Hyde book for the student population - some like it, some don't. I personally do. It doesn't cover as much advanced material as you would like (I'm doing a mathematical physics degree at Imperial for reference), but it does occasionally throw you some useful technique that you haven't encountered before (courses can't cover everything you know), along with lots of practise questions. I'm not sure if this book would be useful in helping you during your course because it never goes into much explanatory detail: I think this is why some people hate it so much. I used the book as 'supplementary' reading in the holidays merely because I was interested. This, I guess, is what the book was made for and is where it excels - as a SUPPLEMENTARY RESOURCE for those who are interested. Some people say the book is too incomprehensible. I've seen much worse, but you have to be comfortable with maths to enjoy this book because it's aimed at the emerging theorist or someone fluent in mathematics. Again, people find this book hard because they are expecting it to be something that it's not. Don't expect to learn a new topic from scratch from this book - it's not detailed enough for that, expect it to develop subjects that you've hade a vague aquaintance with before. In summary, if you love maths, buy this book. If you see maths as a chore, there are better books for your purpose.
A Marvellous Book, 31 Jul 2007
I'm an independent maths tutor and one of my students (in fact studying for an economics degree) asked me to find a book that would give him a good grounding in maths (up through A Level to undergraduate standard). Trying to find a book that they could work from on their own was proving to be a tall order until I came across this one. This is a pretty hefty tome but it is very well laid out and very well written - as if the author was talking to you directly but without being either patronising or silly (as these books tend to be if the author tries a "chatty" style, for some reason). In fact my student thought this book so good when I lent it to them that they bought it off me and they haven't regretted it. So this review is really two very strong recommendations in one! An excellent buy for an A/S level and first year undergraduate student.
Excellent for those begining or brushing up on basics., 15 Apr 2001
The book begins with very simple priciples including simple algebra and dealing with fractions. From here it builds up on to more complex subject matter. Plenty of examples are given and exercises and summarys conclude each chapter, solutions are also provided. Those who have a limited knowledge of maths will find this book useful, as will those who are a little too used to using a calculator...it is exteremly helpful in the fields it covers. Perfect for those studying foundation maths, and would make a good companion for a more advanced, degree level textbook.
Beautifully presented, 21 Mar 2007
Its a real pleasure to see a clearly laid out undergraduate-oientated introduction to GR hich is predominantly aimed at those with a mathematical background. Consequently it is uncluttered and easy to follow.Most importantly the guidance notes on the solutions are a dream especially for students self-studying who do not have access to a tutor.
I can see myself using this and referring to it frequently.Definitely an instant favourite. A great start point for further and higher studies in GR and theoretical/mathematical physics.
fresh paradigms from the old master of chaos, 06 Nov 2008
Framed as the outpouring of insight generated by the novel Goddess 'Apophenia', Pete Carroll's new work is a real gem. Coming from a science background, this is his attempt to create a falisfiable model of why the universe looks the way it does, and just why magick can operate successfully.
In the inimitable Carrollian style we have come to know and love, our author sets out to demolish the edifices of being, consciousness, causality, the big-bang and more. In toppling these ontological Titans Pete discovers a universe of panpsychism and intense meaning. If nothing else this agrees with my own views and is therefore a Good Thing. Pursuing this process through the scientific style of exploration means that quantum physics, special relativity et al show up pretty frequently in the text. If you buy this book expecting lists of planetary correspondence and ritual-by-numbers instructions you're going to be disappointed. However this doesn't mean that this is all physics and no esoterica. Rather the point is that the reading of the universe that the author presents is suffused with magick. (Nevertheless there are some reassuring illustrations of occult entities and one explicit ritual - a rather lovely evocation of the Goddess Apophenia herself).
My reaction in reading this book was one of excitement. The suggestions that Pete advances tickle the mind delightfully. Certainly this isn't Liber Null. It's not a manual of techniques but instead concentrates on theory, yet that doesn't make for a dull read. The theorisation presented here can light the touch paper of a hundred disciplines: cosmology and magick for sure but also Fortean studies, ethnography and especially neuro-biology.
Algebra explodes across the appendices of the book scattering the non-mathematicians towards the Epilogue where things are nicely rounded off in laypersons terms. The truth may well be that we live in vorticitating hypersphere with three dimensional time that, as the author beautifully asserts, "...invites us to become apprentice gods." The very fact that I can now say 'vorticitating hypersphere' and know what that means is a testament to the authors explicatory powers.
The final and perhaps most wonderful thing about The Apophenian is how it demonstrates the development and maturation of Pete Carroll's earlier writing. If nothing else this stands as a testament to the work of an individual (or perhaps conspiracy of selves!) who's magick really does seem to work.
Eight chaospheres out of a possible eight!
The Holographic Universe; Leonard Susskind -James Lindesay, 27 Jul 2006
It's a really great little book. I got half-way through and realized I wasn't understanding the mathematics involved. I was not surprised by this as I am an artist with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.I have had little opportunity to learn the terms and concepts involved. So I stopped reading this book and read Roger Penrose's "Road to Reality". It is an excellent book from which I was able to learn about the mathematics, and a whole lot more. I then read Susskind's Holographic Universe without much trouble, understanding quite well what he is getting at. I would rate it as "terribly interesting".
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Customer Reviews
An Excellent Beginners Guide to Maxwell's equations, 07 Dec 2008
I teach physics and was interested in a way in which the Maxwell equations could be broken down so they can be understood most easily. A lot of the time students struggle with conceptualising this subject and the maths can seem a little abstract or unnecessary. The two most common texts for undergraduates on the subject are Classical Electrodynamics by John David Jackson and Classical Electromagnetism by Jerrold Franklin. Although both these books are excellent and are leading textbooks in the subject there is a requirement of high mathematical knowledge and ability to conceptualise abstract concepts. This Book plays a major part in helping you get those skills while at the same time teaching with good effect Gauss's laws, Faradays law and the Maxwell equations. Every part of every equation is broken down and explained conceptually and mathematically teaching you about areas such as closed integrals and dot and cross products. This book is an invaluable part of any physics student's armoury when attempting to understand classical electro magnetism. The only reason why I have not given this book 5 stars is because the book is quite short at 134 pages and could have gone a lot further with the excellent logical and methodical route that it takes. Pete B, 01 Nov 2008
I bought this book primarily out of interest and with a view of getting a better understanding of this difficult subject - generally surrounding the concepts and the mathematics involved. The author breaks down each of maxwell's equation, explaining each part and then giving examples to back up the theory. This is not for beginners but would help undergraduate students in Physics or Electrical/Electronic Engineering. It does a great job! Well written, marvellously comprehensive..., 04 Nov 2008
I am a games developer and I was looking for a good textbook that I could turn to for the math involved in advanced rendering and physics. I am very pleased to have bought the third edition of this excellent work. For me this book is an absolute winner. It covers a huge range of topics, from quadratic equations to spherical harmonics, differential equations and quantum operators; yet the treatment does not feel hurried and terse like it does in some other books that cover such a scope (Kreyszig for example). It's written in a clear and engaging style and the print is not small - presumably profquantum is refrerring to an earlier edition in his/her review.
Run, don't walk, to buy this book best maths textbook for physicists, 22 Mar 2007
This book is simply the best. It is lightyears better than Boas (the most often suggested alternative), and it basically contains all the maths You'll ever need in all but the most theoretical undergraduate course of any natural science (well, except maths, if that's a science ;-) ).
In fact, now slowly finishing my PhD in physics, I think I can say that unless You are doing actual theoretical/mathematical physics, it probably contains all or most of the maths You'll need for the rest of Your life. Simply the best.Forget the rest., 10 Sep 2005
This book is a watershed in the teaching of calculus and the essential mathematical methods required by undergraduate mathematicians, physicists and engineers.It will easily become the standard reference for methods courses , if it has not done so already.It starts right at the beginning with a refresher in basic calculus etc , and then proceeds to carefully develop multi-variable calculus, linear differential equations,complex variables, calculus of variations , tensors, representations, numerical analysis and prob&stats.What I really like about this book is the way general curvilinear coordinate transformations are explained at the end of the vector calculus section, to which you can refer when reading the chapter on tensors.I know of no other methods textbook which introduces tensors like this:many lesser texts (and that means all the rest) seem to feel that it is sufficient to teach people about raising indices, and give readers some vague hand-waving about coordinate transformations.This book is one to buy for this alone, as you will then have a firm grasp of why the tensor notation is like it is.Indeed, I would say that this book makes most other methods textbooks look the half-arsed disgrace that they are.Jacobians could be more carefully introduced, and the writing style can be a little Enid Blyton (phrases like 'one can consult the many excellent textbooks on such and such' can become rather monotonous), but apart from tiny niggles like this, this really is a truly comprehensive methods book, which really starts from the beginning and takes you well into the foothills of genuinely advanced techniques, and which you will keep through your professional life.An instant classic. Valuable and readable, 25 Apr 2005
This book is not only an absolutely fantastic guide for physicists and engineers, but also for mathematics students themselves.
It covers the entire first year course at my university, and probably bits of the second year as well. It truely is the Bible! The Good Book..., 24 May 2004
We know it as 'The Bible'. 'Nuff said. why to not how to, 08 Jan 2009
If you just want to know how to do something in mathematics this is not the book for you. Consider instead the excellent strode titles Engineering Mathematics 5th ed: Programmes and Problems and Advanced Engineering Mathematics
However if you want to know why then its broad range and depth make an excellent first stop for the curious. Very Useful, 05 Aug 2008
This was recommended to me by a physicist in the year above me at Oxford - have successfully used it for a year in Physics, and from next year's syllabus it should be fine for the second year too. It was set at the right level and does everything rigorously (for a non-mathematician), leaving no confusing contradictions when you learn more advanced topics. The explanations and questions are all well thought out for developing an understanding of the topics. Completely Overrated, 23 Jun 2008
I was told by my maths lecturer to buy this book for the first year of maths for chemistry at Oxford. In my entire year, I have not used this book once so have wasted the best part of £50 on it. Maybe it is better for more advanced courses, but for what I was doing, was a waste of money. Not bad, but better titles out there, 17 Dec 2005
This book is fairly comprehensive and covers all the main areas of the first year maths sylabus (I'm studying Physics). However, I found the style of this book made it hard to read and understand, and at times the text was unclear. A much better book, im my opinion, is "Mathematical Methods for Science Students" by Stephenson, which is very concise and deals with most of the material in a logical and well thought out manner. Some people like it, others don't, 10 Jul 2005
This book is a classic Jekyl and Hyde book for the student population - some like it, some don't. I personally do. It doesn't cover as much advanced material as you would like (I'm doing a mathematical physics degree at Imperial for reference), but it does occasionally throw you some useful technique that you haven't encountered before (courses can't cover everything you know), along with lots of practise questions. I'm not sure if this book would be useful in helping you during your course because it never goes into much explanatory detail: I think this is why some people hate it so much. I used the book as 'supplementary' reading in the holidays merely because I was interested. This, I guess, is what the book was made for and is where it excels - as a SUPPLEMENTARY RESOURCE for those who are interested. Some people say the book is too incomprehensible. I've seen much worse, but you have to be comfortable with maths to enjoy this book because it's aimed at the emerging theorist or someone fluent in mathematics. Again, people find this book hard because they are expecting it to be something that it's not. Don't expect to learn a new topic from scratch from this book - it's not detailed enough for that, expect it to develop subjects that you've hade a vague aquaintance with before. In summary, if you love maths, buy this book. If you see maths as a chore, there are better books for your purpose.
A Marvellous Book, 31 Jul 2007
I'm an independent maths tutor and one of my students (in fact studying for an economics degree) asked me to find a book that would give him a good grounding in maths (up through A Level to undergraduate standard). Trying to find a book that they could work from on their own was proving to be a tall order until I came across this one. This is a pretty hefty tome but it is very well laid out and very well written - as if the author was talking to you directly but without being either patronising or silly (as these books tend to be if the author tries a "chatty" style, for some reason). In fact my student thought this book so good when I lent it to them that they bought it off me and they haven't regretted it. So this review is really two very strong recommendations in one! An excellent buy for an A/S level and first year undergraduate student.
Excellent for those begining or brushing up on basics., 15 Apr 2001
The book begins with very simple priciples including simple algebra and dealing with fractions. From here it builds up on to more complex subject matter. Plenty of examples are given and exercises and summarys conclude each chapter, solutions are also provided. Those who have a limited knowledge of maths will find this book useful, as will those who are a little too used to using a calculator...it is exteremly helpful in the fields it covers. Perfect for those studying foundation maths, and would make a good companion for a more advanced, degree level textbook.
Beautifully presented, 21 Mar 2007
Its a real pleasure to see a clearly laid out undergraduate-oientated introduction to GR hich is predominantly aimed at those with a mathematical background. Consequently it is uncluttered and easy to follow.Most importantly the guidance notes on the solutions are a dream especially for students self-studying who do not have access to a tutor.
I can see myself using this and referring to it frequently.Definitely an instant favourite. A great start point for further and higher studies in GR and theoretical/mathematical physics.
fresh paradigms from the old master of chaos, 06 Nov 2008
Framed as the outpouring of insight generated by the novel Goddess 'Apophenia', Pete Carroll's new work is a real gem. Coming from a science background, this is his attempt to create a falisfiable model of why the universe looks the way it does, and just why magick can operate successfully.
In the inimitable Carrollian style we have come to know and love, our author sets out to demolish the edifices of being, consciousness, causality, the big-bang and more. In toppling these ontological Titans Pete discovers a universe of panpsychism and intense meaning. If nothing else this agrees with my own views and is therefore a Good Thing. Pursuing this process through the scientific style of exploration means that quantum physics, special relativity et al show up pretty frequently in the text. If you buy this book expecting lists of planetary correspondence and ritual-by-numbers instructions you're going to be disappointed. However this doesn't mean that this is all physics and no esoterica. Rather the point is that the reading of the universe that the author presents is suffused with magick. (Nevertheless there are some reassuring illustrations of occult entities and one explicit ritual - a rather lovely evocation of the Goddess Apophenia herself).
My reaction in reading this book was one of excitement. The suggestions that Pete advances tickle the mind delightfully. Certainly this isn't Liber Null. It's not a manual of techniques but instead concentrates on theory, yet that doesn't make for a dull read. The theorisation presented here can light the touch paper of a hundred disciplines: cosmology and magick for sure but also Fortean studies, ethnography and especially neuro-biology.
Algebra explodes across the appendices of the book scattering the non-mathematicians towards the Epilogue where things are nicely rounded off in laypersons terms. The truth may well be that we live in vorticitating hypersphere with three dimensional time that, as the author beautifully asserts, "...invites us to become apprentice gods." The very fact that I can now say 'vorticitating hypersphere' and know what that means is a testament to the authors explicatory powers.
The final and perhaps most wonderful thing about The Apophenian is how it demonstrates the development and maturation of Pete Carroll's earlier writing. If nothing else this stands as a testament to the work of an individual (or perhaps conspiracy of selves!) who's magick really does seem to work.
Eight chaospheres out of a possible eight!
The Holographic Universe; Leonard Susskind -James Lindesay, 27 Jul 2006
It's a really great little book. I got half-way through and realized I wasn't understanding the mathematics involved. I was not surprised by this as I am an artist with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.I have had little opportunity to learn the terms and concepts involved. So I stopped reading this book and read Roger Penrose's "Road to Reality". It is an excellent book from which I was able to learn about the mathematics, and a whole lot more. I then read Susskind's Holographic Universe without much trouble, understanding quite well what he is getting at. I would rate it as "terribly interesting".
Excellent for those knowing QFT. Difficult for new learners, 02 May 1999
A superb reference book, and one that those with some grounding in quantum field theory can learn many good things from. However, I believe students trying to learn what many consider a difficult subject will have a tough go of it. Being so brilliant, Weinberg may have trouble (not so rare in physics)teaching at the level of the students, rather than from the level of the accomplished. Nevertheless, this is a book everyone in the field should have on his/her bookshelf.
Deeply penetrating and rewarding, but challenging, 14 Nov 1998
Steven Weinberg delivers an outstanding and extraordinarily rich treatment of a difficult subject. This is a book for deep study and reflection, and only for serious students who are willing to put in the effort and stay the course. Weinberg makes no secret of his preference for the Feyman, particle-based approach, as opposed to Schwinger's field theoretic approach, and remains consistent in his treatment of the subject. As a result, Feynman's path integral methods are particularly well treated, but the real delight of the book is in its relentless probing of the many interconnections of quantum field theory. The books are difficult, and a pencil and paper at one's side for working out the steps between one equation and the next is essential. Weinberg expects you to work through this book, not just soak it up in a pedestrian and leisurely way. And a prior exposure to quantum field theory is probably necessary. However, Weinberg's prose makes one long for the unique combination of sheer elegance and profound originality of Paul Dirac's classic Principles of Quantum Field Theory, and it lacks the feeling of superb craftsmanship exhibited by the latter. With this caveat, it is without doubt the finest and most original modern treatment of the subject
Outstanding; Clearly the best book on the subject, 08 Aug 1998
This is THE book on quantum field theory. The only blemish is the idiosyncratic metric used. It is quite thorough, very cleary explained (though he could have done a better job in some places) and coherent. There is no other book on the subject that comes close.
must have!, 29 Jul 1998
This is an excellent text for QFT; however I'm not convinced it is the best introduction to the subject. At times it can be overly dense and cumbersome with notion. Nonetheless, this is one of the best references out there. In particular, the treatment of bound states in QFT is the best I've seen. Weinberg also provides extraordinary insight into the subject.
Get the second printing (1996) with corrections. Superb!, 14 Jul 1997
Weinberg is one of the greatest physicists
of this century. He is also one of the best
writers on the subject of physics. His two
volumes on quantum field theory are the best
books on this subject and probably will remain
so for many years.
A second printing of the first volume was
issued in 1996 with many minor corrections
of typographical errors.
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Calculus of Variations
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Customer Reviews
An Excellent Beginners Guide to Maxwell's equations, 07 Dec 2008
I teach physics and was interested in a way in which the Maxwell equations could be broken down so they can be understood most easily. A lot of the time students struggle with conceptualising this subject and the maths can seem a little abstract or unnecessary. The two most common texts for undergraduates on the subject are Classical Electrodynamics by John David Jackson and Classical Electromagnetism by Jerrold Franklin. Although both these books are excellent and are leading textbooks in the subject there is a requirement of high mathematical knowledge and ability to conceptualise abstract concepts. This Book plays a major part in helping you get those skills while at the same time teaching with good effect Gauss's laws, Faradays law and the Maxwell equations. Every part of every equation is broken down and explained conceptually and mathematically teaching you about areas such as closed integrals and dot and cross products. This book is an invaluable part of any physics student's armoury when attempting to understand classical electro magnetism. The only reason why I have not | | |