P. A. Davidson, Professor of Fluid Mechanics, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge
Davidson provides a specialized text on fluid dynamics. The first six chapters are devoted to basic fluid mechanics topics covered in standard undergraduate textbooks, but Davidson approaches these with a level of rigor suitable to more advanced students and readers. Chapters 7-10 cover topics mostly related to geophysical flows such as waves, stratified flows, and rotating flows. The last four chapters are devoted to instability and turbulence. Overall, this is an excellent book on the topic. The text is carefully written and insightful and reads easily. A suitable number of figures support Davidson's explanation of particular concepts. A strong point of this work is Davidson's emphasis on physical insights. The text will be helpful to senior undergraduates, graduate students, and researchers in the general area of fluid dynamics, particularly those interested in geophysical applications. * M. Alam, University of California, Berkeley, Professor of Mechanical Engineering *