Modern textbooks on this subject are of importance primarily for several reasons.
Because of the rapid progression of scientific knowledge generally the text must reflect the latest concepts of underlying principles.
It must fit in with educational programs, that is to say, its scope and treatment of details must be sufficient in extent.
It must have appeal to the student and arouse curiosity. Its method of presentation must be such as to make lasting impressions, yet the work must not be fatiguing.
These and other features are contained in the book at hand. It follows the study of mechanics and heat, and proceeds with mechanics under the topics of gravitation and gravitation potential to introduce, through energy relations, electricity.
Following this there are in order studies on electrostatus, electric current, electrolytes, magnetostatics, cathode and canal rays, induced E. M. F., electronics, the new concept of the atom, alternating currents, and electromagnetic waves.
The trend throughout is logical and clear.
Problems at the end of chapters reveal keen insight to the situation of the student and although the treatment at times is somewhat rigorous, everywhere there is a sympathetic attitude toward and understanding of the needs and reactions of the student. The book is of value as a text for classroom use.
R. H. OPPERMANN.