Analytical Mechanics

An advanced undergraduate-level textbook introducing the key analytical techniques of classical mechanics, first published in 1999.

Louis N. Hand (Author), Janet D. Finch (Author)

9780521573276, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 13 November 1998

592 pages, 219 b/w illus. 26 tables 250 exercises
26.1 x 18.4 x 2.8 cm, 1.09 kg

'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

Analytical 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.

1. 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.

Subject Areas: Classical mechanics [PHD]