SI2360 Analytical Mechanics and Classical Field Theory 7.5 credits
This is an advanced course on classical physics, including mechanics and classical field theory. It should be useful for everybody who wants to further develop skills and understanding which are the basis of many modern developments of theoretical physics. The aim is to give a good working knowledge of the formalisms of Lagrange and Hamilton and their applications in classical (i.e. non-quantized) non-relativistic and relativistic systems. In addition one will learn various concepts which play an important role in modern theoretical physics, including symmetry principles, the structure of space-time, and the geometric structure of mechanics.
Choose semester and course offering
Choose semester and course offering to see information from the correct course syllabus and course offering.
Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
Review of elementary Newtonian mechanics (Newton's laws, Galilei transformations and conservation laws, accelerated reference systems, etc.).
Principles of canonical mechanics (Lagrange and Hamilton formalism, canonical transformations, Hamilton-Jacobi equations, etc.).
Relativistic mechanics (Lorentz transformations etc.).
Geometric aspects of mechanics (introduction to differential geometry and its use in mechanics).
Continuous systems (introduction to classical field theory).
Intended learning outcomes
After completion of the course you should be able to:
- use the formalisms of Lagrange and Hamilton in specific examples.
- solve a larger variety of problems using methods in analytical mechanics than before.
- apply the mathematical tools that have been developed during the course.
- analyze and apply equations in classical field theory.
Course disposition
Literature and preparations
Specific prerequisites
English B / English 6
Recommended prerequisites
Obligatory courses in Mechanics and Mathematical Methods in Physics.
SG1113
SI1146
SI1200
Equipment
Literature
Examination and completion
If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.
Grading scale
Examination
- TEN1 - Examination, 4.5 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
- TEN2 - Examination, 3.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.
The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.
This course includes SI1142.
If you have points in SI1142 you cannot earn points in TEN1 Part A, and to get TEN1 Part A you need to transfer 3 points from SI1142 to SI2360.
It is possible to do only TEN1 Part A and get the result registered as SI1142.
SI2360 and SI1142 cannot be counted in the final exam at the same time (only one or the other).
Other requirements for final grade
TEN 1 Part A (3p) TEN 1 Part B (1.5hp) TEN 2 (3p).
TEN1 Part A corresponds to SI1142. SI1142 can therefore be transferred to TEN1 Part A.
TEN1 Parts A and B are normally written exams and can be written at the same time. TEN2 is usually an oral exam.
Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination
Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination
Yes
Examiner
Ethical approach
- All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
- In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
- In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.
Further information
Course web
Further information about the course can be found on the Course web at the link below. Information on the Course web will later be moved to this site.
Course web SI2360Offered by
Main field of study
Education cycle
Add-on studies
Theoretical Physics courses in KTH physics master program