Book excerpt: "Mechanical Engineering Principles offers a student-friendly introduction to core engineering topics that does not assume any previous background in engineering studies, and as such can act as a core textbook for several engineering courses. Bird and Ross introduce mechanical principles and technology through examples and applications rather than theory. This approach enables students to develop a sound understanding of the engineering principles and their use in practice. Theoretical concepts are supported by over 600 problems and 400 worked answers. The new edition will match up to the latest BTEC National specifications and can also be used on mechanical engineering courses from Levels 2 to 4"--