Relativity suffers from the myth that it is difficult. In order to overcome this barrier, this book approaches the subject from the point of view of classical mechanics, and demonstrates that the theory of relativity is a natural extension of the familiar equations. It also presents the theory of special relativity, with examples and exercises.
Dynamics and Relativity provides undergraduates in physics with an unusually accessible introduction to special relativity by emphasizing the connections between relativity and classical mechanics. The book begins by developing classical mechanics in a form that the author calls "Galilean Relativity," which emphasizes frames of reference. The author shows how a problem formulated in one frame of reference can then solved in another where the problem takes a simpler form. After applying this strategy to a number of classical problems, the author discusses the limitations of Galilean Relativity, particularly for handling Maxwell's equations, and then proceeds to develop Special Relativity while drawing extensively on the groundwork from the previous chapters. The book stresses conservation laws throughout and includes a final chapter that briefly outlines General Relativity.
"The author's key idea is to discuss pre-relativistic physics in a relativistc way, thus allowing the reader to become gradually accustomed to concepts ...In this respect, McComb's book is unique. ...His presentation is clear, rigorous and concise without going into unneccessary mathematical complexities. ...examples and diagrams are used making the book easy to follow and attractive. ...The book also contains a substantial number of exercises of varying difficulty and provides their full solutions instead of simply citing the answers. To the earnest student, this should offer a hands-on test of his understanding of the theory. ...a comprehensive book that also provides the undergraduate student with a smooth transition from the classical world to Einstein's theory." Contemporary Physics 2000 Volume, 41 Number 5 pages 337-350
