28375 - Mathematical Physics 2

Learning outcomes

A the end of the course the student will know the general methods of classical mechanics. He will know how to set up and solve any problem of motion with or without constraints.

Course contents

Summary of the kinematics of point masses and of the rigid body. Fundamental principles of mechanics. Constraints and constraint forces. The postulate of the constraint forces. Method of the constraint forces to determine the conditions for the equilibrium. The principle of the virtual works. Equilibrium of systems under the action of conservative forces. Dynamics of point masses with or without constraits. Prime integrals. Motion of falling bodies. Motion of a point mass on a straight line under the action of a positional force: the Weierstrass analysis. Relative motion and elements of celestial mechanics. The two body problem and Kepler's laws. Dynamical characteristics of poit systems. The theorems of the linear momentum, of the angular momentum, of energy conservation. The momentum of inertia and the motion of the rigid body. The Lagrange equations and the general set up for the motion of any mechanical system with or without constraints.

Readings/Bibliography

- Dario Graffi: Elementi di Meccanica Razionale (Patron);

- Dario Graffi: Esercizi di Meccanica Razionale (Patron).

The written lecture notes will be made availble for the download from the web.

Teaching methods

Lectures in classroom.

Assessment methods

Written test and oral exam.

Office hours

See the website of Emanuela Caliceti