PHYS 522 Mechanics

Current semester class files are listed here.  Past semester files are listed here.  Schedule can be found below.

PHYS522 – Mechanics – Spring 2009

Textbook:   Classical Mechanics, John R. Taylor
 

Suggested References: Analytic Mechanics, Fowles; Classical Mechanics, Goldstein; Wave Physics, Nettel; Mathematical Methods for Physicists, Arfken and Weber; Classical Dynamics of Particles and Systems, Fifth Edition, Thorton and Marion

Instructor: Dr. Brian R. Washburn CW 36B, (785) 532-2263  Office hours: M/W/F 9:30-10:30 PM or by appt.

Purpose and Goals:  The purpose of this course is to expose you to advanced formalisms of classical mechanics, thus introducing the foundation for other areas of physics.  Another important purpose is to for you to develop a strong conceptual understanding of mechanics, and to develop the problem-solving techniques needed to handle sophisticated problems in classical mechanics.

The overall goals of this class are:

·    Introducing “new” formalisms of classical mechanics and how these formalisms are related to other areas of physics.

·    Expanding your current knowledge of mechanics.

·    Introducing the concept of symmetry and its relationship to conservation principles.

·    Developing essential mathematical and numerical methods and tools.

·    Improving your writing and problem-solving skills

·    Improving your conceptual understanding of mechanics, and your ability to communicate your knowledge.

Grading:  

Exams:  There will be two exams plus a cumulative final exam.  The exams will either be in-class or a take home exam, to be agreed upon by the class and instructor. 

In-Class Quizzes:  Surprise quizzes on the reading material may be given during the lecture or recitation.  The purpose of the quiz is the make you read the book before attending class.

Homework:  It is expected that you will learn the course material mostly by completing the homework.  Note that the course material will be challenging, so you will need to work hard on the homework to be successful.  Homework assignments will be given approximately once per week and will take about 10 hours.  Discussing the homework with your classmates is encouraged but you should be able to write up the assignment on your own.  In the case when you get stuck on a problem, credit will be given for a statement indicating how your solution is incorrect.

Guidelines for the homework:

·    Read the textbook before doing the homework

·    Draw a detailed diagram, write down the given variables, and write out what is to be found.

·    Think about the solution beforehand, and then see if the guess corresponds to your solution. 

·    Discuss the homework with your classmates but write the homework out on your own.

·    Ask thoughtful questions if you get stuck.

·    It is important for you, the scientist in-training, to learn how to communicate scientific information in a clear and precise manner.  It is your responsibility to present the homework solutions in a readable and logical manner.  If this is not done there will be a grade penalty.

Tentative Course Schedule, Mechanics PHYS 522, Spring 2008