Introduction to Physics

Our visual experience of the world and our ability to perceive the objects and people around us would be impossible without light and the many roles it plays in our daily lives. In addition to facilitating our perception, light sustains life on earth by providing energy to plants and heating the atmosphere. The fundamentals of light-including how it is measured, its interaction with matter, and the particle and wave theories of light-are covered in this detailed volume.

Our body's interpretation of hot and cold instinctively alerts us to the existence of temperature differences and gives us some sense of the concept of heat. Heat-the energy that is transferred from one object to another because of a difference in temperature-is a critical part of our lives even when we are not aware of it, from the melting of ice to the functioning of an engine. This comprehensive volume examines heat and the related concepts of temperature, thermal energy, and thermodynamics and introduces readers to some of the great minds that furthered our understanding of this fundamental area of physics.

The diversity of the various states of matter-solids, liquids, and gases-belies their essential similarities. All matter is composed of atoms that combine in different ways, giving us the multitude of shapes and structures we observe on a daily basis. Readers examine the different states and properties of matter, as well as the laws and forces to which matter is subject. Annotated diagrams provide visualization of complex concepts.

Although most people would scarcely be able to make it through the day without using some type of electronic device-computers, televisions, and MP3 players, to name a few-the inner workings of such devices remain a mystery to many. This insightful volume examines various components, such as electron tubes and semiconductors, that have been essential to electronics over the years, as well as the history of the field in general and its applications in everyday life.

Sound has the power to soothe, excite, warn, protect, and inform. Indeed, the transmission and reception of audio signals pervade our daily lives. Readers will examine the mechanics and properties of sound and provides an overview of the "interdisciplinary science called acoustics." Also covered are functions and diseases of the human ear.

As the foundation for other natural sciences, physics helps us interpret both our most basic and complex observations of the natural world. Physics encompasses such topics as mechanics, relativity, thermodynamics, and electricity, among others, all of which elucidate the nature of matter, its motion, and its relationship to force and energy. This engaging volume surveys some of the major branches of physics, the laws, and theories significant to each. Also chronicled are some of the historical milestones in the field by such great minds as Galileo and Isaac Newton.

While it cannot be seen, energy is all around us. Defined as the capacity to do work, energy can be transferred from one entity to another, and exists in many different forms. This detailed volume examines the basics of energy, both kinetic and potential. Forays into more complex concepts, such as nuclear fission and fusion, the relationship between energy and matter, and thermodynamics are discussed as well.

Electrical charges pervade nature, including lightning in a thunderstorm and the signals within our own bodies. Electrical energy also powers many of the devices-refrigerators, televisions, and computers, to name a few-upon which modern life depends. This illuminating volume explores the various aspects of electricity, including electric fields, currents, and circuits, as well as the relationship of electricity and magnetism to the functioning of motors and generators.