Course Information

Syllabus

 

Bibliography

Homework

 

Notes

 

 

Physics 6010: Classical Mechanics

 

Fall 2014

 

Instructor:        James T. Wheeler

Coordinates:      jim.wheeler@usu.edu  SER 228

Office hours:      Wednesdays, 2:30 – 3:30 or by appointment. Anytime by email

Textual resources:                   

                  Classical Mechanics Notes (Wheeler, see Notes page)

 

                 Classical Mechanics (Third edition), by Herbert Goldstein, Charles P. Poole, John L. Safko, Addison Wesley, 2001

                               ISBN-10: 0201657023

                               ISBN-13: 978-0201657029 

 

                  Not-so-classical Mechanics  (Wheeler, 2005)

 

 

                                                           

 

General Goals:

 

1. Learning to apply course materials (problem solving)

 

2. Learning fundamental principles, generalizations, or theories

 

and to some degree,

 

3. Gaining factual knowledge

 

Specific Goals:

 

á      Learn advanced techniques of classical mechanics, which may include any or all of the following as time allows:

 

1.    Lagrange equations

2.    Hamilton equations

3.    Functional methods

4.    Canonical transformations and Hamilton-Jacobi theory

5.    Symmetry and conservation laws

6.    Perturbation theory

 

á      Apply the techniques to standard problems such as:

 

1.    Central forces

2.    Non-inertial reference frames

3.    Rigid body motion

4.    Small oscillations

5.    Relativistic mechanics

6.    Continuum mechanics

 

Grading

 

Your grade will be based on the following weighting of course elements:

 

Homework:   35%

Midterm:        30%

Final Exam:   35%

 

Total:              100%

 

 

 

Students with ADA-documented physical, sensory, emotional or medical impairments may be eligible for reasonable accommodations. Veterans may also be eligible for services. All accommodations are coordinated through the Disability Resource Center (DRC) in Room 101 of the University Inn, (435) 797-2444 voice, (435) 797-0740 TTY, (435) 797-2444 VP, or toll free at 1-800-259-2966. Please contact the DRC as early in the semester as possible. Alternate format materials (Braille, large print or digital) are available with advance notice.

 

 

 

 

Course Information

Syllabus

 

Bibliography

Homework

 

Notes