Physics with MasteringPhysics (4th edition) by James S. Walker

Publisher: Addison Wesley
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Product Description

Walker’s goal is to help readers make the connection between a conceptual understanding of physics and the various skills necessary to solve quantitative problems. The pedagogy and approach are based on over 20 years of teaching and reflect the results of physics education research. Already one of the best-selling books in algebra-based physics,The Fourth Edition strengthens both the conceptual foundations and the tools for problem solving to make the book even better suited to today's readers. Introduction to Physicsm, One-Dimensional Kinematics, Vectors in Physics, Two-Dimensional Kinematics, Newton’s Laws of Motion, Applications of Newton’s Laws, Work and Kinetic Energy, Potential Energy and Conservation of Energy, Linear Momentum and Collisions, Rotational Kinematics and Energy, Rotational Dynamics and Static Equilibrium, Gravity, Oscillations About Equilibrium, Waves and Sound, Fluids, Temperature and Heat, Phases and Phase Changes, The Laws of Thermodynamics, Electric Charges, Forces, and Fields, Electric Potential and Electric Potential Energy, Electric Current and Direct-Current Circuits, Magnetism, Magnetic Flux and Faraday’s Law of Induction, Alternating-Current Circuits, Electromagnetic Waves, Geometrical Optics, Optical Instruments, Physical Optics: Interference and Diffraction, Relativity, Quantum Physics, Atomic Physics, Nuclear Physics and Nuclear Radiation . Intended for those interested in learning the basics of algebra-based physics

Customer Reviews

Excellent text for a first year physics student

Review Date: July 29, 2009

Reviewer: Mina Laia, Brooklyn, NY USA

There are a lot of bad physics textbooks out there and only a handful of great ones, and I think this book qualifies as one of the great ones.

First, the writing is very clear. Will everyone understand everything after reading a chapter once? Definitely not. Physics is hard, especially if you've been educated in typical American schools. But Walker knows what misconceptions you have and he addresses them. He gives thorough treatment to issues other texts gloss over in a sentence. Although I agree that the solved problems are typically not the hardest problems, I think that is a good thing. If you go the extra step and do the practice problems following, you'll cement the concept in your mind. He often refers you to related homework problems, too. Super helpful to test prep!!

Some really helpful things:

The solved problems take you through a specific procedure....picture, strategy, solution, insight and practice problem. Often, the numbers of related homework problems are given.

Conceptual checkpoints clear up important issues.

Odd numbered conceptual questions have answers in the back (unlike some other texts).

Lots of excellent diagrams/pictures (but as every textbook, incomplete).

Problem Solving Notes and Real World Examples in the sidebars.

What I like best about Walker is that he doesn't assume you know too much, and he repeats himself as necessary without overdoing it.

Is it perfect? No, but no text I've ever found is. If you're a serious student, you'll get a solutions guide, and perhaps even another text to supplement. Of course, a teacher or tutor who can answer your personal questions is the most efficient strategy.

In this age of technology, a CD/DVD with interactive animations should accompany this book. Maybe that will be in the 4th edition.

Perfect timing, and GREAT condition.

Review Date: February 13, 2010

Reviewer: Dee,

The book came within a few days after purchase, which was perfect timing. I purchased the same book prior to placing my order on Amazon at the school book store for 160.00 (used), and I was shocked at the rate I purchased this book which was in similar condition. So I quickly returned the book purchased from the book store. A huge thank you goes to Campbell's Book Bin...

Great service

Review Date: February 15, 2010

Reviewer: Pam, Elysburg, PA USA

This book was exactly as described and came within a few days! Would definitely order from here again. Thanks!

Just Right for Many Students

Review Date: January 14, 2002

Reviewer: Kenneth J. Dillon, Washington, DC USA

As a self-taught student of physics (age 53), I find this book extremely clear, nicely illustrated, and easy to work with. The carefully explained and graded sample problems are exceedingly helpful for students who need to see how the pros solve problems before tackling any on their own. The level is reasonably sophisticated without getting into calculus--perfect for many students. Of the physics textbooks I have encountered, this is the best.

Comprehensive Physics Book

Review Date: April 9, 2009

Reviewer: K. Oparil, Washington, DC

A great physics textbook. Has lots of illustrations and worked out examples. Also provides a plethora of different types of problems on the same material. Chapters are well organized and easy to read. A great text.