RHB and the need of completeness

Riley, Hobson and Bence's Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering (or as those more intimately familiar with its contents refer to it: RHB), has remained the foremost textbook on mathematical methods within the physical sciences for nearly 3 decades (especially so for physics undergraduates). 

This honour is not without merit. 

The strongest compliment and selling point of this compendium of mathematical techniques is the breadth of its discussion. One would be hard-pressed elsewhere to find such an array of subjects on display: from calculus to green functions, to complex analysis, group theory and statistics. 

This book covers everything a physics undergraduate may ever need to contemplate throughout their studies. Moreover, what makes RHB particularly thrilling to physics instructors is the sustained level the mathematical maturity used at every stage of the chapter.   

Often introductory books to mathematical methods excel at teaching students to solve problems, but often lack the mathematical rigour to give the students a firm mathematical grounding to pursue more advanced topics in applied mathematics. RHB lands the job of carefully walking a tightrope between mathematically verbose and too "hand-wavey" ; this results in the text being the ideal book for intermediate and advanced undergraduates in the first instance. 

For the complete novice, the text through some of the later chapters can seem rather intimidating and without proper instruction. However, this disadvantage can be redeemed if one considers RHB 

From the perspective of research, RHB is the ideal, even perfect reference book for any researcher needing a refresher course. Each chapter is well-crafted to enable quick digestion and mastery of topics for a seasoned reader. 

It is no wonder why this text has remained so popular through it's various editions. 


Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering 3rd Edition (Paperback)

by K.F Riley, M.P Hobson and S.J Bence

ISBN: 9780521679718

Price: £41.99



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