An expedition to continuum theory (Q382508)

The book provides a lucid account on the subject of continuum mechanics illustrating various fields of application for undergraduate and graduate students of engineering and physics. The textbook consists of thirteen chapters including special sections for further information on the subject, sample examples and pertinent references. Also, a subject index and the picture sources of more than eighty scientists are given. The first chapter (pp. 1--14) explains the scope and structure of the book, introduces some basic notions and the concept of continuum mechanics and presents several engineering problems. Chapter 2 (pp. 15--46) is devoted to tensor calculus in arbitrary coordinate systems. Chapter 3 (pp. 47--87) presents the conservation laws of classical mechanics in both integral and local forms in particular rectangular Cartesian systems. Chapter 4 (pp. 89--106) and Chapter 5 (pp. 107--128) are respectively devoted to elements of tensor analysis and the balance laws and the constitutive equations in skew curvilinear coordinate systems. Chapter 6 (pp. 129--152) presents some constitutive equations of solids in linear elastic range, heat conduction, viscous fluids and gas in arbitrary coordinate systems. Chapter 7 (pp. 153--180) states the field equations of fluids and solids, and defines the associated initial boundary value problems for simple geometries. Chapter 8 (pp. 181--214) explains observers and frames of reference in classical continuum mechanics and the balance equations in a moving coordinate system, and the energy balances in a rotating system are given. Chapter 9 (pp. 215--250) examines some sample problems of linear elasticity in cylindrical and spherical coordinate systems. Chapter 10 (pp. 251--287) is devoted to the art of modeling involving viscous gases and fluids, and to selected problems for Newtonian and Maxwellian fluids. Chapter 11 (pp. 289--305) deals with irreversible deformation in solids by means of time-independent plasticity theory and examines some important problems. Chapter 12 (pp. 307--330) presents a delicate subject, entropy as a balanceable quantity and a measure of reversibility, and Eckart's theory of irreversible processes. Chapter 13 (pp. 331--390) provides a rational presentation of the fundamental principles of electromagnetism. The conservation laws are stated. The transformation properties of the electro-magnetic fields are explained. Simple constitutive equations and coupling of electro-magnetic to mechanical phenomena are presented. The last section, ``Would you like to know more?'', is devoted to further information on the subject, and is original and especially motivating. The problem sections with answers to selected problems and even rudimentary chapters on numerical methods and computer problems, which may be enhanced in future editions, make the textbook suitable for classroom use internationally. In conclusion, this book, for providing vision and insight and providing a bridge between various subjects, can be recommended to students and teachers as well as to anyone interested in continuum mechanics.