History of Physics - (2nd Edition)

Author: Guo Yiling
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-08-01
Features: This book introduces the history of the development of physics, focusing on the formation process of fundamental concepts, basic laws, and major branches of physics, with particular emphasis on the history of modern physics. The content includes: the development of mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, and classical optics; the new experimental discoveries and the revolution of modern physics at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries; the establishment and development of relativity; the early quantum theory and the preparation for quantum mechanics; the establishment and development of quantum mechanics; the development of nuclear physics and particle physics; a brief history of condensed matter physics; the rise of modern optics; the development of astrophysics; the Nobel Prize in Physics; the role and significance of experiments and laboratories in the development of physics; a brief history of units, unit systems, and fundamental constants. The book is accompanied by over 500 historical photographs, and an appendix at the end provides a timeline of major events in physics. This book retains the features of the edition while adding substantial supplements and corrections. It is suitable for use in teaching by university and college faculty and students, as well as for reference by high school physics teachers and related science and technology personnel.