Nuclear and particle physics : an introduction /

Martin (physics and astronomy, University College London) offers this book combining the basics of nuclear and particle physics, designed for undergraduates in the British system. The book assumes an introductory course in quantum mechanics and is probably appropriate only for the best-prepared undergraduates in the US. It is roughly comparable to Nuclear and Particle Physics, by W. S. C. Williams (CH, Feb'92, 29-3360), and Introduction to Nuclear and Particle Physics, by Ashok Das and Thomas Ferbel (CH, Feb'94, 31-3280), but a bit more up-to-date than the Williams book. Martin covers all the standard topics in particle and nuclear physics very thoroughly and provides a few extras. They include chapters on experimental methods; applications of nuclear physics including fission, fusion and biomedical applications; and unsolved problems for the future. There are four appendixes covering some useful results from quantum mechanics; relativistic mechanics; Rutherford scattering; and complete solutions for all the end-of-chapter problems--a useful feature for students using the book as a reference. Extensive list of references and bibliography with useful comments on similar books. Enthusiastically recommended as a useful addition to any college or university library. ^BSumming Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals. R. L. Stearns emeritus, Vassar College