Abstract
(1) DR. HOARE'S book, which deals with pure thermodynamics, is one of the most readable treatises yet published on a subject which is too frequently dealt with in a somewhat formidable manner. No attempt is made to evade difficulties, since although starting with comparatively elementary work, the final chapters work up to the use of the quantum theory and statistical mechanics. As an instance of the human touch, the author allows himself in connexion with Callendar's equations for steam the use of the word “surprising” when conducting the reader along the interlocking paths of this fascinating piece of work. A little more of this spirit in the past might have shortened the twenty years which elapsed between its enunciation and acceptance.
(1) A Textbook of Thermodynamics
By Dr. F. E. Hoare. Second edition. Pp. xii + 307. (London: Edward Arnold and Co., 1938.) 15s. net.
(2) Applied Thermodynamics
By Prof. Virgil Moring Faires. (Engineering Science Series.) Pp. xvii + 374. (New York: The Macmillan Company, 1938.) 17s. net.
(3) Elementary Thermodynamics
By Prof. Virgil Moring Faires. (Engineering Science Series.) Pp. xiii + 225. (New York: The Macmillan Company, 1938.) 12s. net.
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B., A. (1) A Textbook of Thermodynamics (2) Applied Thermodynamics (3) Elementary Thermodynamics. Nature 144, 176 (1939). https://doi.org/10.1038/144176a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/144176a0