PHYS 411T(F) Classical Mechanics and Fluid Mechanics (Offered 1998-99; not to be offered 1999-2000)

We will study a wide range of phenomena-planetary motion, vibrations in matter, phase transitions, Bernoulli's principle & flight, weather, and chaos to name a few-with the Hamiltonian and Lagrangian formulations of classical mechanics. We will explore how symmetry considerations govern the allowed range of possible behavior. Most of the topics will be covered by the entire class, but students will also explore special topics individually, and present their findings to the entire group. The class will meet as a whole once per week for an hour to discuss questions on the readings. A second tutorial meeting with the instructor will be scheduled for each student where students will take turns working problems on the chalkboard. Written solutions to problems will be due a few days after the tutorial meeting. Evaluation is based on weekly problem sets, tutorial participation, occasional papers and presentations, and a final exam. Prerequisites: Physics 142 and Physics 210 or Mathematics 210.

Hour: AALBERTS