Practical Physics - Fundamental Principles and Applications to Daily Life #250004

The World War has had many notable results, not the least important of which are: first, that it awakened a popular interest in and appreciation of physical and chemical science hitherto unmatched in the world's history; and second, that it led to an unparalleled concentration of able minds on practical or applied as distinguished from pure or theoretical physics and chemistry. There resulted many new applications of the fundamental principles of these sciences. Of these we have attempted to describe only such as seemed to us important in peace as well as in war; but even the few selected form an important addition to the domain of practical physics. We have doubtless included in this book more material than it is advisable for any class to undertake in a single year. This gives the teacher an opportunity to adapt his instruction to local needs and to the time available. We believe that it is most important to select Carefully just what material can best be used and to teach that thoroughly, rather than to try to touch upon many topics superficially. The present edition is as nearly like our former book in spirit, pedagogical method, and general content as the passage of nine years permits. In particular, we have tried to arrange the material in the most teachable order, to give clear and con cise summaries at the ends of the chapters, to set practical rather than artificial problems, to minimize the arithmetical drudgery involved in solving them, and to suggest many ques tions designed to get students into the habit of seeking useful information from the mechanics, artisans, engineers, and others whom they meet outside the classroom.