Here we go again! My students (algebra based intro course, mostly bio majors) are, as I expected, struggling with work and energy, the so-called "work-kinetic energy theorem," conservative and non-conservative forces, "work done by friction," etc. We use Serway and Faughn and I think the work and energy chapter is one of the weakest in the book. The authors either have not read the literature (Arons, et al) or they disagree with what Arons and others have to say. I have seen the next edition and there is little improvement. Among other things, the layout is so cluttered that, were I a student, I would have a hard time getting to the essential ideas.
Recent phys-l postings have again raised some work-energy questions and this prompts my query. In your opinion, which of the intro texts handles this material best?
John Milton
DePaul University, Chicago
This posting is the position of the writer, not that of SUNY-BSC, NAU or the AAPT.