Admission requirements
Prior knowledge of Classical Mechanics a, Introduction to Modern Physics, Electric and Magnetic Fields, Analysis 1 (NA), Analysis 2 (NA) and Linear Algebra 1 (NA). It is to be expected that the student is taking Analysis 3 NA.
Description
The description of the laws of classical mechanics of Newton is given a more general and more fundamental form in the Lagrange and Hamilton formalisms. This description makes the theory more elegant and more broadly useful. In this form the theory prepares the scene for the treatment of Quantum mechanics and other advanced topics.
Subjects to be discussed are: Generalized coordinates; phase space; constraints; the Lagrangian and Lagrange’s equations; conservation laws; the Hamiltonian and Hamilton’s equations; Hamilton’s principle (principle of least action).
The power of the formalism is illustrated by a second main topic: the analysis of systems of coupled harmonic oscillators. This is a subject of great importance with applications ranging from physics, to chemistry, engineering, etc.
Course objectives
After completing this course the student has gained insight into the importance of the Lagrange and Hamilton formalism, and into the role of coupled harmonic oscillators in physics. The student is capable of solving problems using the Lagrange and Hamilton formalisms, and problems involving systems of coupled harmonic oscillators. They can apply the concepts to unknown problems.
Schedule
The timetables are available through My Timetable (see the button in the upper right corner).
Teaching method
Lectures, exercise classes, self-study.
Detailed lecture notes and/or references to specific Sections of the textbook are provided. It is expected that the students prepare for each lecture by reading the indicated material.
Assesment method
The examination consists of a written exam with open questions. A retake exam consisting of a written exam with open questions will be offered. Part of the exam and retake tests the students' understanding of the theory, the other part tests the skills for independently solving problems.
The grade will be fully determined from the exam or, if taken, the retake exam.
Resit, review & feedback
"Examinations are held twice during the academic year for each component offered in that academic year. Midterm tests cannot be retaken. The Board of Examiners determines the manner of resit for practical
assignments."
For review and feedback, see Brightspace.
Reading list
The prime source of study material are the lecture notes, made available as a pdf document.
For further reading the following books are recommended:
Intermediate dynamics, P. Hamill; Cambridge University Press, 2nd edition, ISBN 978-1009098472
Analytical Mechanics, G.R. Fowles and G.L. Cassiday, 7th edition (Thomson Learning, inc., 2004), ISBN 9780534408138.
Classical Mechanics, H. Goldstein, C.P. Poole Jr., J.L. Safko, 3rd edition (Pearson Education Ltf., 2014), ISBN 9781292026558
Registration
Enrolment through MyStudyMap (button in upper right corner) is mandatory. General information about course and exam enrolment is available on the website.
Contact
For substantive questions, contact the lecturer(s) (listed in the right information bar).
Remarks
Software
Starting from the 2024/2025 academic year, the Faculty of Science will use the software distribution platform Academic Software. Through this platform, you can access the software needed for specific courses in your studies. For some software, your laptop must meet certain system requirements, which will be specified with the software. It is important to install the software before the start of the course. More information about the laptop requirements can be found on the student website.