On their first encounter with statics and dynamics, students often have difficulty with three particular aspects of the subject. These are (1) visualization of the physical properties involved, (2) expression of the latter in mathematical terms and (3) manipulation of the mathematics in order to solve the various problems that arise. The aim of this book is to teach the basics of statics and dynamics in a way which will help them to overcome these difficulties. It will be a valuable supplement for A-level mathematics in schools and further education colleges and for first year university courses in mathematics and engineering.

The book starts with an in-depth discussion of the concept and description of forces. The concepts are usually taken for granted in textbooks on statics and dynamics, leaving students with rather hazy ideas regarding the physical nature of forces. The quantitative description leading onto conditions for equilibrium involves the use of vectors, coordinate geometry and trigonometry, all of which are dealt with in Part IV: Background Mathematics.

Part I of this book is entitled Statics, but much of the material in the chapters on forces, moments, centre of gravity and friction is required in Part II: Dynamics. Hydrostatics is considered briefly in the chapter on distributed forces. There are also chapters on trusses, beams, non-coplanar forces and couples, and virtual work.