Classical Mechanics

by Emmanuele DiBenedetto

Classical mechanics is a chief example of the scientific method organizing a "complex" collection of information into theoretically rigorous, unifying principles; in this sense, mechanics represents one of the highest forms of mathematical modeling. This textbook covers standard topics of a mechanics course, namely, the mechanics of rigid bodies, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalism, stability and small oscillations, an introduction to celestial mechanics, and Hamilton–Jacobi theory, but at the same time features unique examples—such as the spinning top including friction and gyroscopic compass—seldom appearing in this context. In addition, variational principles like Lagrangian and Hamiltonian dynamics are treated in great detail. Using a pedagogical approach, the author covers many topics that are gradually developed and motivated by classical examples. Through `Problems and Complements' sections at the end of each chapter, the work presents various questions in an extended presentat