This text takes readers through the mathematics of impact theory and gives examples of reactions of material to rapidly applied stress. After a brief introduction to the nature of physical impact, the text examines stereochemical impact, vibrational aspects of impact, contact phenomena produced by the impact of elastic bodies, dynamic processes involving plastic strains, and results of impact experiments. A final chapter considers dynamic properties of materials, examines tests involving dynamic loads and notched-bar impact, and looks at dynamic tensile, dynamic compressive, and torsion tests. This is an unabridged republication of the work published by Edward Arnold (Publishers) Ltd., London, 1960. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)