Jul 07, 2025  
Rensselaer Catalog 2025-2026 
    
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Rensselaer Catalog 2025-2026
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PHYS 4330 - Theoretical Mechanics

Particle and rigid body dynamics using Newtonian, Lagrangian, and Hamiltonian methods. Motion of particle systems. Central force motion. Rotating coordinate systems. Rigid body motion using the inertia tensor and Euler angles. Coupled systems and normal coordinates. Introduction to continuum mechanics and the mechanics of deformable media. Introduction to Hamiltonian Mechanics, including proof and applications of Liouville’s Theorem. Formalism of Special Relativity. Introduction to nonlinear dynamics and chaotic behavior.

Prerequisite: PHYS 1250  or PHYS 1200 , and MATH 2400 

Prerequisite or Corequisite: MATH 2010  

When Offered: SPRING TERM ANNUALLY

Graded: GRADED

Credit Hours: 4


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