Vector analysis, which had its beginnings in the middle of the 19th century, has in recent
years become an essential part of the mathematical background required of engineers, physicists,
mathematicians and other scientists. This requirement is far from accidental, for not
only does vector analysis provide a concise notation for presenting equations arising from
mathematical formulations of physical and geometrical problems but it is also a natural aid
in forming mental pictures of physical and geometrical ideas. In short, it might very well be
considered a most rewarding language and mode of thought for the physical sciences.
This book is designed to be used either as a textbook for a formal course in vector
analysis or as a very useful supplement to all current standard texts. It should also be of
considerable value to those taking courses in physics, mechanics, electromagnetic theory,
aerodynamics or any of the numerous other fields in which vector methods are employed.
Each chapter begins with a clear statement of pertinent definitions, principles and
theorems together with illustrative and other descriptive material. This is followed by
graded sets of solved and supplementary problems. The solved problems serve to illustrate
and amplify the theory, bring into sharp focus those fine points without which the student
continually feels himself on unsafe ground, and provide the repetition of basic principles
so vital to effective teaching. Numerous proofs of theorems and derivations of formulas
are included among the solved problems. The large number of supplementary problems
with answers serve as a complete review of the material of each chapter.
Topics covered include the algebra and the differential and integral calculus of vectors,
Stokes' theorem, the divergence theorem and other integral theorems together with
many applications drawn from various fields. Added features are the chapters on curvilinear
coordinates and tensor analysis which should prove extremely useful in the study of
advanced engineering, physics and mathematics.
Considerably more material has been included here than can be covered in most first
courses. This has been done to make the book more flexible, to provide a more useful book
of reference, and to stimulate further interest in the topics.
The author gratefully acknowledges his indebtedness to Mr. Henry Hayden for typographical
layout and art work for the figures. The realism of these figures adds greatly to
the effectiveness of presentation in a subject where spatial visualizations play such an important
role. - McGraw Hill Education