Description

A strong point of this book is its coverage of tensor theory, which is herein deemed both more readable and more substantial than many other historic continuum mechanics books. The book is self-contained. It serves admirably as a reference resource on fundamental principles and equations of tensor mathematics applied to continuum mechanics. Exercises and problem sets are useful for teaching … The book is highly recommended as both a graduate textbook and a reference work for students and more senior researchers involved in theoretical and mathematical modelling of continuum mechanics of materials. Key concepts are well described in the text and are supplemented by informative exercises and problem sets with solutions, and comprehensive Appendices provide important equations for ease of reference.

A tensor field is a tensor-valued function of position in space. The use of tensor fields allows us to present physical laws in a clear, compact form. A byproduct is a set of simple and clear rules for the representation of vector differential operators such as gradient, divergence, and Laplacian in curvilinear coordinate systems. The tensorial nature of a quantity permits us to formulate transformation rules for its components under a change of basis. These rules are relatively simple and easily grasped by any engineering student familiar with matrix operators in linear algebra. More complex problems arise when one considers the tensor fields that describe continuum bodies. In this case general curvilinear coordinates become necessary. The principal basis of a curvilinear system is constructed as a set of vectors tangent to the coordinate lines. Another basis, called the dual basis, is also constructed in a special manner. The existence of these two bases is responsible for the mysterious covariant and contravariant terminology encountered in tensor discussions.

This book provides a clear, concise, and self-contained treatment of tensors and tensor fields. It covers the foundations of linear elasticity, shell theory, and generalized continuum media, offers hints, answers, and full solutions for many of the problems and exercises, and Includes a handbook-style summary of important tensor formulas.

The book can be useful for beginners who are interested in the basics of tensor calculus. It also can be used by experienced readers who seek a comprehensive review on applications of the tensor calculus in mechanics.