SI2360 Analytical Mechanics and Classical Field Theory 7.5 credits
Analytisk mekanik och klassisk fältteori
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.
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Course information
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.
- know and analyze equations in classical field theory.
- see the similarlities (and differences) between classical and quantum mechanics
Course Disposition
15x2 hours lectures (mixture of theory and examples)
3 optional homework sets (strongly recommended)
3 workshops on problem solving
Literature and preparations
Specific prerequisites *
Recommended prerequisites: Obligatory courses in Mechanics and Mathematical Methods in Physics.
Recommended prerequisites
SG1113
SI1146
SI1200
Equipment
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Literature
Fastställs senare
Examination and completion
Grading scale *
A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
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 can transfer 3 points and to have PART 1 of TEN1. If you only succeed to do Part 1 of TEN1 you can get the result registered as SI1142 (and you can decide later if you want to complete SU2360).
Other requirements for final grade *
A written and/or oral exam.
Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination
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Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination
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Examiner
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 *
Physics
Education cycle *
Second cycle
Add-on studies
Theoretical Physics courses in KTH physics master program
Contact
Edwin Langmann (langmann@kth.se)
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.