The Complete A-Z Physics Handbook, Second Edition

Abstract

The first edition of this book was published in 1997 and reviewed in Physics Education in March 1988. This second edition is 13 pages longer and contains a significant number of new entries, mostly in particle physics and astrophysics, to match the latest AS/A-level specifications. Some entries on topics such as surface tension that were removed from previous AS/A-level syllabuses have now been deleted. The revised book thus provides an effective alphabetical guide to key terms used in the latest AS/A-level specifications as most AS/A-level core terms are included, apart from terms for some of the new topics such as image processing in the new IOP AS/A-level specification. The style of the second edition is the same as the first, each entry commencing with the key term in bold print followed by an explanation of the term, accompanied by the relevant equation and/or a simple diagram where appropriate. Cross-references are given in italics. For example, the entry under quarks (which is one of the new entries) lists the six quarks and their characteristic properties in bullet point format then follows up with the information about the quark composition of baryons and mesons, giving the composition of the proton, the neutron and the pions as examples. The change of quark composition due to beta decay is mentioned with a cross-reference to beta decay. Other cross-references link to entries on the proton, the neutron and the four fundamental interactions. Lengthy entries such as the photoelectric effect each cover several pages, thus providing opportunities for in-depth revision. Useful theme entries provided in the first edition have been retained and referred to in a new two-page appendix on preparing for synoptic questions. Some proofs are provided such as the proof of the kinetic theory equation. Some experiments are described, each under an appropriate entry. Technically, the entries are reasonably accurate and usually expressed in appropriate and familiar language. The book ends with the same appendices as in the first edition (units, formulae, physical constants, examiners' terms, a suggested revision list and notes on examination preparation) plus the two-page synoptic appendix. The second edition with its additional entries on particle physics and astrophysics should prove useful as a study guide to supplement a textbook or as a revision guide as AS or A2 examinations approach. In addition, the concise nature of many of the entries could be valuable in helping physics students sharpen their written communication skills, thereby securing marks which all too often they lose on account of inadequate answers to descriptive questions.