Not offered 2007-2008
PHYS 411T Classical Mechanics (Q)
The course will investigate advanced topics in classical mechanics including phase space plots, non-linear oscillators, numerical solutions, approximation methods, the calculus of
variations, the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian reformulations of mechanics, rotating frames of
reference (with emphasis on the implications for physics on the Earth) and scattering cross
sections. The carry over of ideas developed in the context of classical mechanics into other
areas of physics will be explored. The class as a whole will meet once per week for an
introductory lecture/discussion. A second tutorial meeting between the instructor and a pair
of students will be scheduled later in the week. Students will take turns working and discussing problems at the chalkboard. Written solutions will be due later in the week.
Format: tutorial, 1and1/4 hours per week; lecture, one hour per week. Evaluation will be
based on weekly problem sets, tutorial participation, presentations, and a final exam or final
project, all of which have a substantial quantitative component.
Prerequisites: Physics 202 and Physics 210 or Mathematics 210. Enrollment limit: 20 (expected: 10).
WOOTTERS