Theoretical Physics 1 (Mechanics)

coordinate systems, inertial frames, Newton’s laws
trajectories, force, work, kinetic energy, potentials
point systems, center of mass, angular momentum, torque
Galilei transformations, (non-)inertial frames of reference
constrained motion, constraining forces
virtual work, d'Alembert's principle
Lagrange equations of the first and second kind,
action principle
Kepler’s problem
rigid body motion, moment of inertia,
gyroscope, precession
oscillations, Green functions, normal coordinates,
resonances, oscillations of a string or membrane,
wave equation
Hamiltonian equations (canonical formalism)
canonical transformations, Poisson brackets
special relativity: time dilation, Lorentz contraction,
Lorentz transformations, addition of velocities,
Lorentz tensors

After a successful participation in this module, the student should be able to:

1. understand the dynamical formulation of mechanical problems
2. apply the correct formalism to problems found in nature (e.g. distinction between Lagrangian equations of the first kind and second kind)
3. interpret of the dynamics by means of energetical arguments
4. understand the limitations of classical mechanics at high velocities

PH0001, MA9201, MA9202

for students studying bachelor of science education mathematics / physics: PH0001, MA1003, MA1004, MA1103, MA1104

Lecture:
Blackboard teaching

Tutorial:
discussion of homework problems, further questions, detailed explanations of unanswered questions from the lecture

Blackboard or beamer presentation

additional information on lecture web page

Standard literature of theoretical physics, e.g.:

• T. Fliessbach, Mechanik, Springer Spektrum
• H. Goldstein et al., Klassische Mechanik, Wiley-VCH Verlag
• L.D. Landau, E.M. Lifschitz, Mechanik, Verlag Harri Deutsch
• H. Stephani, G. Kluge, Klassische Mechanik, Spektrum Verlang
• F. Scheck, Theoretische Physik 1: Mechanik, Springer-Verlag

The learning outcome is tested in a written exam. Participation in tutorials is strongly recommended.

There will be a bonus (one intermediate stepping of "0,3" to the better grade) on passed module exams (4,3 is not upgraded to 4,0). The bonus is applicable to the exam period directly following the lecture period (not to the exam repetition) and subject to the condition that the student obtained at least 50 % of the points in the homework sheets.