Classical Dynamics
S06
Norman Derby
Much of the machinery of calculus and differential equations was developed in order to study the physics of motion—motion of planets, apples, tops, and tides. Consequently, this physics course provides an ideal place in which to practice and extend your mathematical skills while exploring the physical world. Here you will explore the relatively abstract reformulation of the laws of Newtonian mechanics that extends their range and flexibility. You will study the action principle, Lagrangians and generalized coordinates and then use them to understand planetary motion, the motion of rotating bodies, and some aspects of chaos in dynamical systems. You will also get an introduction to the Hamiltonian formulation of mechanics, which is the gateway that leads most directly into quantum mechanics.