Description
Book SynopsisAnalytical Mechanics, first published in 1999, provides a detailed introduction to the key analytical techniques of classical mechanics, one of the cornerstones of physics. It deals with all the important subjects encountered in an undergraduate course and prepares the reader thoroughly for further study at graduate level. The authors set out the fundamentals of Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics early on in the book and go on to cover such topics as linear oscillators, planetary orbits, rigid-body motion, small vibrations, nonlinear dynamics, chaos, and special relativity. A special feature is the inclusion of many 'e-mail questions', which are intended to facilitate dialogue between the student and instructor. Many worked examples are given, and there are 250 homework exercises to help students gain confidence and proficiency in problem-solving. It is an ideal textbook for undergraduate courses in classical mechanics, and provides a sound foundation for graduate study.
Trade Review'This book is a welcome addition to the available choices for a graduate text in modern classical mechanics and I encourage instructors to consider it.' R. W. Robinett, American Journal of Physics
Table of Contents1. Lagrangian mechanics; 2. Variational calculus and its application to mechanics; 3. Linear oscillators; 4. One dimensional systems: central forces and the Kepler problem; 5. Noether's theorem and Hamiltonian dynamics; 6. Theoretical mechanics: from canonical transformations to action-angle variables; 7. Rotating coordinate systems; 8. The dynamics of rigid bodies; 9. The theory of small vibrations; 10. Approximate solutions to non-analytic problems; 11. Chaotic dynamics; 12. Special relativity.
