Emmy Noether′s Wonderful Theorem - Softcover

Neuenschwander, Dwight E

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0801896940 ISBN 13: 9780801896941

Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press, 2011

Synopsis

A beautiful piece of mathematics, Noether's Theorem touches on every aspect of physics. Emmy Noether proved her theorem in 1915 and published it in 1918. This profound concept demonstrates the connection between conservation laws and symmetries. For instance, the theorem shows that a system invariant under translations of time, space, or rotation will obey the laws of conservation of energy, linear momentum, or angular momentum, respectively. This exciting result offers a rich unifying principle for all of physics.

Dwight E. Neuenschwander's introduction to the theorem's genesis, applications, and consequences artfully unpacks its universal importance and unsurpassed elegance. Drawing from over thirty years of teaching the subject, Neuenschwander uses mechanics, optics,geometry, and field theory to point the way to a deep understanding of Noether's Theorem. The three sections provide a step-by-step, simple approach to the less-complex concepts surrounding the theorem, in turn instilling the knowledge and confidence needed to grasp the full wonder it encompasses. Illustrations and worked examples throughout each chapter serve as signposts on the way to this apex of physics.

Noether's Theorem is an essential principle of post-introductory physics. This handy guide includes end-of-chapter questions for review and appendixes detailing key related physics concepts for further study.

About this title

Product Description:

Emmy Noether's Wonderful Theorem

Review:

"Neuenschwander displays the instincts of a good teacher and writes clearly. Using Noether's Theorem as an overarching principle across areas of theoretical physics, he helps students gain a more integrated picture of what sometimes seem to be independent courses―an ever-important thing for undergraduate physics education."

(Dr. Cliff Chancey, University of Northern Iowa)

"Neuenschwander writes well and gives thorough explanations."

(Choice)

"Without entering into technicalities, the author nevertheless succeeds in preserving a reasonable standard of mathematical rigor and, above all, in convincing the reader of the mathematical beauty and physical relevance of Noether's theorem. If only for that reason, I can strongly recommend this book."

(Frans Cantrijn Mathematical Reviews)

"A very readable and concrete introduction to symmetry and invariance in physics with Noether's (first) theorem providing a unifying theme... The style of writing is very engaging and conveys the enthusiasm of the author... The book contains many interesting examples as well as excellent exercises."

(James Vickers London Mathematical Society Newsletter)

About this edition

• Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press
• Publication date: 2011
• ISBN 10: 0801896940
• ISBN 13: 9780801896941
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 192