Applied Mechanics Books

Pokhara University Semester 2 Applied Mechanics Important Books: Study Resources and Preparation Guide

Preparing for university engineering examinations often brings a familiar set of challenges for Bachelor of Engineering students in Nepal. Finding structured, semester-appropriate resources can sometimes turn into an exhausting exercise. …

Applied Mechanics (MEC 150) Books & Reference Guide

Applied Mechanics (MEC 150) serves as a foundational engineering course designed to bridge the gap between pure physics and real-world structural applications. The curriculum covers essential statics and dynamics principles, equipping students with the mathematical and physical tools to analyze structural forces, motion, and mechanical systems.

Recommended Textbooks & Reference Literature

Vector Mechanics for Engineers: Statics and Dynamics – Ferdinand P. Beer, E. Russell Johnston Jr.: Primary core textbook providing step-by-step mathematical derivations, structural vector analysis, and extensive practice problems covering statics and particle dynamics.
Engineering Mechanics: Statics and Dynamics – R. C. Hibbeler: Essential conceptual reference widely known for clear Free Body Diagrams (FBD), structural truss analysis, and detailed kinematics/kinetics derivations.
A Textbook of Engineering Mechanics – R. S. Khurmi, J. K. Gupta: Recommended foundational textbook featuring simplified breakdowns of centroids, moments of inertia, and practical work-energy problem solving tailored for semester exams.
Engineering Mechanics – S. Timoshenko, D. H. Young: Classic advanced reference focusing on fundamental mechanical principles, force system mechanics, and structural vibration theory.

Syllabus Coverage & Book Mapping

Unit 1: Fundamentals & Principles (3 Hours)

Key Topics: Core definitions of statics vs. dynamics, vector algebra reviews, coordinate systems, and Newtonian principles governing particles, rigid bodies, and fluids.
Best Book Reference: Beer & Johnston (Chapter 1–2) / Hibbeler (Chapter 1–2).

Unit 2: Force Systems & Static Equilibrium (10 Hours)

Key Topics: Vector resolution of external/internal forces, 2D/3D equilibrium equations, Free Body Diagrams (FBD), friction dynamics, moments, couples, and transmissibility principles.
Best Book Reference: Hibbeler (Chapters 3–5, 8) / Khurmi (Force Analysis & Friction Chapters).

Unit 3: Centroids & Moments of Inertia (6 Hours)

Key Topics: Geometric center calculations (Centre of Gravity/Centroid) for lines and areas, second moment of area, radius of gyration, and practical application of the Parallel Axis Theorem.
Best Book Reference: Khurmi (Centroid & Moment of Inertia Chapters) / Beer & Johnston (Chapter 9).

Unit 4: Structural Analysis of Beams & Trusses (9 Hours)

Key Topics: Statically determinate structures, Axial Force (AFD), Shear Force (SFD), and Bending Moment Diagrams (BMD), plus truss analysis via Method of Joints and Method of Sections.
Best Book Reference: Hibbeler (Chapters 6 & 7) / Beer & Johnston (Chapters 6 & 7).

Unit 5: Kinematics of Particles & Rigid Bodies (8 Hours)

Key Topics: Rectilinear and curvilinear motion analysis without regard to forces, alongside position, velocity, and acceleration derivations using rectangular, tangential/normal, and radial/transverse components.
Best Book Reference: Beer & Johnston (Chapter 11) / Hibbeler (Chapter 12).

Unit 6: Kinetics of Particles (6 Hours)

Key Topics: Newton’s Second Law applied to dynamic systems, formulation of equations of motion across coordinate systems, dynamic equilibrium, and D’Alembert’s Principle.
Best Book Reference: Hibbeler (Chapter 13) / Timoshenko & Young (Kinetics Section).

Unit 7: Work, Energy & Momentum Methods (8 Hours)

Key Topics: Work done by forces and springs, Principle of Work and Energy, energy conservation, impulse-momentum relationships, and central/oblique impacts.
Best Book Reference: Beer & Johnston (Chapters 13 & 14) / Hibbeler (Chapters 14 & 15).

Unit 8: Systems of Particles (6 Hours)

Key Topics: Multi-particle networks, central force motion, collective kinetic/potential energy transformations, and total momentum conservation principles.
Best Book Reference: Beer & Johnston (Chapter 14) / Timoshenko (Particle System Analysis).

Unit 9: Mechanical Vibration in Structures (4 Hours)

Key Topics: Structural dynamics focusing on Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM), undamped and damped free vibrations, and practical engineering applications.
Best Book Reference: Khurmi (Simple Harmonic Motion Chapter) / Hibbeler (Vibrations Chapter 22).