Spring 2007 Syllabus for PH303
(Theoretical Mechanics)
Course Professor: Scott Heinekamp (scotth@wells.edu) Zabriskie 203 ext 3361 (http://aurora.wells.edu/~swh/)
Course Description
Here is the Lecture
Schedule, where you will find the topics discussed.
Theoretical Mechanics is an in-depth study of the description and
explanation of translational and rotational motion. The subject matter forms the core
of classical physics: it is as much about methodology as about the topics themselves.
Because the class is small, I hope to discuss topics that are of interest to the class, since we can't
hope to legitimately cover the whole field. Generally, though, we will revisit Newtonian dynamics
as a review; look in depth at oscillations; perhaps delve into the phase plane method (a nice
stepping-stone to chaos theory); touch on central force motion and the consequences of angular
momentum conservation; see how things are described in an accelerating (particularly, rotating) frame of reference; and learn about (and use) the Lagrangian method.
Textbook and reserve materialsText is Classical Mechanics (5th Edition) by Tom W B Kibble and Frank H Berkshire (Paperback - Jun 2004).
Useful to consult: Classical Dynamics of Particles and Systems (2nd ed.) by Marion; Classical Mechanics: A Modern Perspective (2nd ed.) by Barger and Olsson.
In a field such as this, even
old books are excellent, so I encourage you to paw through the library's collection.
HomeworkThe set of homework assignments may be
found at
Homework Assignment, where the annotated homework
sets will appear. This will be updated regularly. Most problems will be taken from
the text.
Grading SystemHomework (30% total)
Exams: 3 of them (lowest score dropped) 20% each (40% total)
Final Exam (30% total)
http://aurora.wells.edu/~swh/ph303/ph303syl.htm