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

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

PH0001, MA9201, MA9202

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

Lecture: black-board presentation

Open tutorial: The open tutorial provides the opportunity for solving the exercises for oneself or as a group. The open tutorial is overseen by different tutors an leaves room for further discussions and exchange with other students.

Tutorial: The tutorial is held in small groups. In the tutorial the weekly exercises are presented by the students and the tutor. They also provide room for discussions and additional explanations to the lectures.

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

There will be a written exam of 90 minutes duration. Therein the achievement of the competencies given in section learning outcome is tested exemplarily at least to the given cognition level using calculation problems and comprehension questions.

For example an assignment in the exam might be:

• set-up and solution of the Euler-Lagrange equations for a system of mass points
• identification of the symmetries of physical systems and calculation of the corresponding conservation laws

Participation in the exercise classes is strongly recommended since the exercises prepare for the problems of the exam and rehearse the specific competencies.

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 passes the mid-term of obtaining at least 50% of the points in the homework problems