The Physics Of Particle Accelerators

This book is about the physics of particle accelerators. It starts with a history of particle accelerator development and explains the importance of high energy particles in fundamental research. It then surveys many aspects of accelerator physics, including how accelerators work, why the underlying physics leads to a particular choice of design or technique, and the limitations of the technology. The book also includes a range of calculations which develop a feeling for the quantities and concepts involved.

The complex technology of particle accelerators is based upon a series of simple physical concepts. This introduction to the subject focuses on providing a physical understanding of these key ideas. The study surveys the many aspects of accelerator physics and not only explains how accelerators work, but also why the underlying physics leads to a particular choice of design or technique, and points out the limitations of the technology. The mathematical treatment always emphasizes the physical principles described by the equations, and includes a range of calculations which develop a feeling for the quantities and concepts involved. Review: Starting from a historical overview of particle accelerator development and an emphasis on the importance of high energy particles in fundamental research, Wille (physics, U. of Dortmund) surveys many aspects of accelerator physics also relevant to other disciplines and develops relevant formulas step-by-step. Suitable for a senior undergraduate text. The translator is in the physics department at the U. of Bristol. --SciTech Book News