This established text provides a first course in physics for students on access or foundation programmes and for non-specialist students on degree courses such as biological sciences, chemical sciences, engineering, mathematics and geology for whom physics is a subsidiary subject. The book is also suitable for trainee science teachers and medical students who need to develop a solid background in physics. Physics offers various routes into the subject via independent introductory sections on mechanics, materials, waves and electricity. Assuming no prior knowledge and focusing on the essentials, the text develops sections on fields, electromagnetism, electronics, atomic and nuclear physics, and advanced mechanics and thermodynamics, in a logical and succinct style. Illustrations are used extensively to support theoretical explanations and help readers understand the fundamentals of physics. Now in its fourth edition, Physics contains a new section on rotational dynamics, additional applications features throughout and it has an attractive new layout and design. Key features include: - mathematical exercises and extensive mathematical support- worked examples in every chapter- a glossary of key terms and concepts - chapter objectives and summaries- online resources at www.palgrave.com/foundations/breithaupt, including further case studies and experimentsIdeal for use as a class text or for independent study, Physics will help students who are new to the subject to gain confidence in their knowledge and understanding of physics.