Introduction to Nuclear Engineering (3rd Edition) (Addison-Wesley Series in Nuclear Science and Engineering)

As a textbook for teaching the fundamentals of nuclear engineering, the Lamarsh-Baratta text is horrible. It is riven with errors in the text and examples (and we are using the 3rd edition), the questions are infuriatingly vague at times and in general it does a poor job of explaining an admittedly difficult subject.

Regarding the large numbers of typos, I and my classmates had to search the web for an errata sheet and even then we continue to find errors such as formulae written incorrectly and wrong values for constants.

As for being vague, this text makes you assume many things. A favorite example is a problem early in the text where we not only have to assume neutron energies, we also had to assume fuel type. Then we have to assume energy released per fission and somehow come up with an answer we can be confident in. Ridiculous.

The examples are hit and miss - occasionally they are helpful, an omission I am sure that will be corrected in the 4th edition.

We find ourselves relying on outside texts and materials much of the time to supplement this poorly written textbook.

EDIT ADDED TWO YEARS LATER - Now with perspective from the job world...

After graduating and entering the work force, I mostly stand by the above. I will admit that I do have my copy still with me. It does provide the occasional useful overview of a wide breadth of topics.

I must once again point out the many errata. I still regard it as inexcusable even though I know mistakes do happen - but this is the 3rd edition.

Another thing that would be enormously useful would be if the next edition included units. When teaching this subject, watching how units cancel out or are used can be very, very helpful to undergrad students.

Many students will be forced to use this. I would suggest keeping it on your bookshelf, but if you are supposed to use this in your class, I strongly recommend Nuclear Reactor Engineering by Glasstone and Sesonske as a supplement. The third edition of the Glasstone book can still be found for a reasonable price if you can't afford the most recent edition.

This is the best introductory book in nuclear engineering I have ever encountered in my life. The late professor John Lamarsh had the unique ability to convey information to his students in an unbelievably straight forward manner. This book reflects his teaching approach, completely. If you are studying nuclear engineering it should be your first stop.

If you are a (non-nuclear) engineering professional or student and really need to communicate with nuclear engineers or comprehend concepts of nuclear applications you have to study this book. Finally, if you are preparing for your qualifying examinations, it is an absolute must.

The book is a masterpiece of pedagogical methodology in nuclear engineering. It will make you feel comfortable with the intricacies of nuclear reactor theory, within a short period of time. In addition, you will be introduced to solid thermodynamic concepts that are coupled to reactor theory. Equal teaching importance is given to nuclear licensing, radiation physics, and shielding.

Essentially, this book covers the whole spectrum of basic nuclear engineering.

This is an excellent book to introduce the main issues involved in the production of nuclear energy. Perfect for the beguinner and the non-expert reader. The most interesting fact is the presentation of safety issues and policies as well as reactor desing principles and procedures.

A great book to self-teach nuclear engineering. Oriented to the advanced student of physics, or the engineer. Starts with a review of particle physics and modern physic basics, ending in the design of nuclear reactors, safety procedures and effects of radiation on living organisms.