Published by Pearson (March 7, 2023) © 2023
Richard WolfsonFor two- and three-semester university physics courses
Just the Essentials
Richard Wolfson’s Essential University Physics, 3rd Edition is a concise and progressive calculus-based physics textbook that offers clear writing, great problems, and relevant real-life applications in an affordable and streamlined text. Essential University Physics teaches sound problem-solving skills, emphasises conceptual understanding, and makes connections to the real world. Features such as annotated figures and step-by-step problem-solving strategies help students master concepts and solve problems with confidence.
Essential University Physics is offered as two paperback volumes available together or for sale individually.
Volume 1 contains Chapters 1–19.
Volume 2 contains Chapters 20–39.
1. Doing Physics
I. MECHANICS
2. Motion in a Straight Line
3. Motion in Two and Three Dimensions
4. Force and Motion
5. Using Newton’s Laws
6. Work, Energy, and Power
7. Conservation of Energy
8. Gravity
9. Systems of Particles
10. Rotational Motion
11. Rotational Vectors and Angular Momentum
12. Static Equilibrium
II. OSCILLATIONS, WAVES, AND FLUIDS
13. Oscillatory Motion
14. Wave Motion
15. Fluid Motion
III. THERMODYNAMICS
16. Temperature and Heat
17. The Thermal Behavior of Matter
18. Heat, Work, and the First Law of Thermodynamics
19. The Second Law of Thermodynamics
IV. ELECTROMAGNETISM
20. Electric Charge, Force, and Field
21. Gauss’s Law
22. Electric Potential
23. Electrostatic Energy and Capacitors
24. Electric Current
25. Electric Circuits
26. Magnetism: Force and Field
27. Electromagnetic Induction
28. Alternating-Current Circuits
29. Maxwell’s Equations and Electromagnetic Waves
V. OPTICS
30. Reflection and Refraction
31. Images and Optical Instruments
32. Interference and Diffraction
VI. MODERN PHYSICS
33. Relativity
34. Particles and Waves
35. Quantum Mechanics
36. Atomic Physics
37. Molecules and Solids
38. Nuclear Physics
39. From Quarks to the Cosmos
APPENDICES
Appendix A Mathematics
Appendix B The International System of Units (SI)
Appendix C Conversion Factors
Appendix D The Elements
Appendix E Astrophysical Data