Analytical Mechanics

This course deals with Lagrange's and Hamilton's formalism of classical mechanics. Subjects discussed are:

- From Newton's law to Lagrangian mechanics and the least action principle. The Euler-Lagrange equations, generalized momenta.

- Constrained systems, Lagrange multipliers.

- Generalized coordinates, rigid body, inertia tensor, harmonic oscillators, Poisson brackets. Symmetries of the Lagrangian and conserved quantities.

- Hamilton's principle, Hamiltonian, Hamilton's equations, Liouville's Theorem.

Homework assignments and written exam.

The homework grade is determined by the best 2 homeworks, out of 3. The final grade is calculated as max(0.75*exam+0.25*homework,exam).

The homework grades also count for the resit, but cannot be transferred to next year.