“Physics for Architects” is a physics textbook, intended to answer the needs of architecture students and to serve as a resource for architects and builders. While focusing on physics topics that are directly related to buildings and to the living conditions in them, it thoroughly covers the main principles and concepts of physics. The math introduction reviews the algebra and trigonometry topics and other basic concepts that are required for using its formulas in theoretical and practical applications.
The physics component of architecture programs may vary from one program to another. The main variations are in the relative weights of the different physics topics and in the level of math with which each topic is treated. “Physics for Architects” addresses those realities. Its chapters are almost self contained, so that any program can select from it only the chapters that it needs. Each chapter deals with the basic concepts and with problems and applications that require various levels of math sophistication, so that each program can choose the most appropriate sub-topics and applications within a chapter. Each chapter can also serve as a standalone introduction to a professional architecture course, such as heat or acoustics, independent of the rest of the book.
Developing the concept and the first edition of the book was supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation. The second edition expanded on the first and incorporated in it insights gained from classroom experiences and feedback from teachers and students. The eBook is a PDF version of the second edition, and the WebAssign Module is an online interactive learning platform that enhances the learning experience.
“Physics for Architects” is available as a print version and as a package consisting of an eBook and a WebAssign module for online learning and problem solving.