Engineering mechanics
Mechanics is the physical science which deals with the effects of forces on objects . No other subject plays a grater role in engineering analysis than mechanics. Although the principle of mechanics are few , they have wide application in engineering . the principles of mechanics are central to research and development in fields of vibration, stability and strength of structure and mechanics , robotics, rocket and spacecraft design , atomic control, engine performance, fluid flow, electrical machines. Understanding of this subject is an essential prerequisite for work in these and many other fields.
The subject of statics developed very early in history because its principles can be formulated simply from measurements off geometry and force. For example, the writings of Archimedes (287-212 B.C) deals with the principles of lever. Studies of the pulley , inclined plane, and wrench are also recorded in ancient writings- at time when the requirements for engineering were limited primarily to building construction.
Since the principles of dynamics depend on an accurate measurement of time, this subject developed much later. Galileo Galilee (1564-1642) was one of the first major contributors to this field . His work consisted of experim-ents using pendulums and falling bodies. The most significant contributions in dynamics, however , were made by Isaae Newton (1642-1727), who is noted for his formulation of the three fundamental laws of motion and the low of universal gravitational attraction