Calculus Vector Analysis and Cartesian Tensors by Bourne and Kendall

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the suitability of a book by Bourne and Kendall for a multivariable calculus teaching assistant role, highlighting its strengths in vector analysis and introductory Cartesian tensors for undergraduates. However, it is noted that the book lacks coverage of certain topics like Lagrange multipliers. Participants are encouraged to recommend additional resources, particularly those that effectively integrate vector analysis with tensor notation. One suggested title is "Vectors" by P. Moon and D.E. Spencer, published in 1965, which adheres to the contravariant/covariant notation, despite being considered outdated.
Whitehole
Messages
128
Reaction score
4
I have to do a teaching assistant job on a multivariable calculus class, I have to survey books that can be useful as resources. Has anyone used this book by Bourne and Kendall? I noticed that the treatment of vector analysis seems good and the chapter on Cartesian tensors seem to be a good intro for undergrads. I just noticed that the topics of the book seems to be lacking, i.e. Lagrange multipliers, etc.

Can anyone also recommend other good books on vector analysis with some tensors included, i.e. vector calculus in tensor notations, etc.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
While certainly not a modern book one of the coauthors was a student of Dirk Struik:

Vectors by P. Moon and D.E. Spencer D.Van Nostrand Company Inc (1965)

notation follows the contravariant/covariant convention
 
By looking around, it seems like Dr. Hassani's books are great for studying "mathematical methods for the physicist/engineer." One is for the beginner physicist [Mathematical Methods: For Students of Physics and Related Fields] and the other is [Mathematical Physics: A Modern Introduction to Its Foundations] for the advanced undergraduate / grad student. I'm a sophomore undergrad and I have taken up the standard calculus sequence (~3sems) and ODEs. I want to self study ahead in mathematics...

Similar threads

Back
Top