Pls suggest Best Book on Maxwell

[praveen]

Pls suggest "The Best Book" on Maxwell and History of arriving at Maxwell equations.

Books shud be understable for a normal person.

Thanks
Praveen

 

[selfAdjoint]

I believe Maxwell's own book on electromagnetism is still in print. Whittaker's Theories of Electricity and Magnetism in the 19th Century covers the history.

 

[hhegab]

There are many great books on Maxwell and the history of his equations, so it can be difficult to choose just one "best" book. However, here are a few recommendations that are considered to be highly informative and accessible for a general audience:

1. "Maxwell's Equations: Their Story and Significance" by Richard Feynman, Robert Leighton, and Matthew Sands - This book is a classic and highly recommended by many physicists. It provides a clear and engaging explanation of Maxwell's equations and their impact on modern physics.

2. "The Man Who Changed Everything: The Life of James Clerk Maxwell" by Basil Mahon - This biography of Maxwell delves into his personal life as well as his scientific contributions, making it a well-rounded and interesting read for those interested in both the man and his work.

3. "Maxwell's Demon: Why Warmth Disperses and Time Passes" by Hans Christian von Baeyer - This book explores the implications of Maxwell's equations on thermodynamics and the concept of time. It is written in a conversational style and is suitable for readers without a strong background in physics.

Ultimately, the best book for you will depend on your specific interests and level of understanding. I recommend browsing reviews and summaries of these books to see which one aligns best with your preferences. Happy reading!