About the Book

This introductory undergraduate engineering textbook on mechanics has been developed by the authors based on their experience of teaching the subject at IIT Delhi for over three decades. Students of physics and mathematics too will find the clear, concise and rigorous treatment of classical mechanics useful.

The subject has been developed in the spirit of modern continuum mechanics, as the classical model is physically valid only for systems of finite size. The logical sequence of kinematics, axioms, dynamics and statics has been followed, and statics treated as a special case of dynamics. Concepts are rigorously defined for the general case, prior to presenting their specific forms for particular cases. This approach helps in developing abstract thinking and avoiding ambiguities. A large number of examples that mimic real-life engineering systems have been included to illustrate the underlying principles and a systematic approach to solving problems.

Salient features

• Follows the approach of the general to the particular to avoid misconceptions arising from dealing with particular cases first. Further, concepts do not have to be learnt twice or thrice over (e.g., 1D, 2D and 3D).
• Primitives, defined entities, axioms and derived results are clearly differentiated. Simplification and modelling of physical systems has been highlighted and brought to the forefront.
• Includes a chapter on variational mechanics to introduce students to this powerful method.
• Clear and explanatory diagrams have been extensively used for reinforcing concepts and development of theory.
• Includes a large number of solved examples for illustrating the underlying principles, the application of governing equations, and the process of breaking down complex engineering problems for analysis.
• The rich collection of exercises comprising concept review questions and practice problems of varied kinds enable complex problem-solving capability and deep-rooted learning.