Mr. Minchin's Treatise on Statics

Abstract

THIS new edition of this work has been separated into two volumes. The first volume (351 pp.), dealing with “Equilibrium of Coplanar Forces,” aims at the standard of Undergraduate Honours; it is noticeable for the frequent use of graphic methods and for a long discussion on funicular polygons (now forming so important a help in graphic applications to engineering); this was published in 1884. The second and longer volume is a masterpiece of constructive skill in the adaptation of modern methods; it is particularly noticeable for the introduction of the theory of screws and of astatic equilibrium, also for an extensive selection of excellent examples, and for the free use of hyperbolic and elliptic functions in solutions: the reading required is thus considerable; it is, in fact, intended for those who seek Honours. The work is so much improved in this edition that it merits an extended notice. The second volume is divided into only seven chapters, each of which is an essay on its special subject. The numbering of chapters and articles is continuous with Vol. I., whilst the pagination is distinct.

A Treatise on Statics, with Applications to Physics.

By G. M. Minchin Vol. II. 3rd ed. (pp. 512 + vi.). Clarendon Press Series. (Clarendon Press, Oxon, 1886.)