Dynamics of bodies with time-variable mass (Q901482)

This book is a monogram on variable mass dynamical systems. It is the result of research conducted by the author over many years. The book is intended primarily for researchers working with variable mass systems in all branches of science and engineering. It can also serve as a textbook for students and researchers wanting to know more about methods of analysis of variable mass systems. ``Variable mass'' systems divide themselves into two major categories: 1) Those with the mass quickly leaving or being added to the system (``discontinued''); and 2) Those with mass moving within the system, but remaining in the system (``continued''). These two categories model a very wide range of physical systems. The book itself is divided into six chapters spanning approximately 200 pages. Three of the chapters are relatively short: an introduction (Chapter 1); a review of linear and angular momentum (Chapter 2); and conclusions and contributions (Chapter 6). The bulk of the information is thus contained in three chapters: Chapter 3, ``Discontinual Mass Variation''; Chapter 4, ``Continual Mass Variation''; and Chapter 5, ``Oscillator with Continual Mass Variation''. The book is very detailed and it requires of the reader an advanced knowledge of the underlying subject matter. As such it would be difficult to serve as a text, except as a supplement in advanced graduate level courses. No problems are given. Alternatively, for those working with variable mass systems, the book could serve as a very useful resource.