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    Overview

    Techniques and applications of classical mechanics: calculus of variations, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations. The special theory of relativity with application in relativistic mechanics. Cosmology.

    This paper presents the foundational theory for two major topics in physics. The classical mechanics section introduces the formal framework of classical mechanics and illustrates its application to two-body problems, oscillating systems and non-inertial frames, such as rotating systems. The special relativity and cosmology section covers the special theory of relativity with applications to relativistic mechanics as well as an introduction to cosmology. This paper is the same as the MATH 374 paper offered by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. It is taught jointly by staff from both departments.

    About this paper

    Paper title Mathematical Physics
    Subject Physics
    EFTS 0.15
    Points 18 points
    Teaching period Semester 2 (On campus)
    Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) $1,173.30
    International Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website.
    Prerequisite
    MATH 203 and 36 300-level PHSI or MATH points
    Restriction
    MATH 374
    Recommended Preparation
    (PHSI 221 and PHSI 222) and COMO 204
    Schedule C
    Science
    Contact
    terry.scott@otago.ac.nz
    Teaching staff

    Course Co-ordinator: Dr Terry Scott
    Dr Florian Beyer
    Dr Jörg Frauendiener

    Textbooks
    Classical Mechanics, John Taylor.
    Graduate Attributes Emphasised
    Global perspective, Interdisciplinary perspective, Lifelong learning, Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking, Information literacy, Self-motivation, Teamwork.
    View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.
    Learning Outcomes

    After completing this paper students will be able to:

    • Understand and use the calculus of variations, particularly in the derivation of the Lagrangian formulation of classical mechanics
    • Understand and use the Hamiltonian and Lagrangian formulations of classical mechanics and how they are related
    • Use the principles of classical mechanics to analyse standard systems, such as two-body central force problems and the rotation of rigid bodies
    • Understand the principles of special relativity and the representation of these principles in the Lorentz Transformation and covariant formalism
    • Solve problems in relativistic mechanics using these principles
    • Understand the introductory ideas of cosmology

    Timetable

    Semester 2

    Location
    Dunedin
    Teaching method
    This paper is taught On Campus
    Learning management system
    Blackboard

    Lecture

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend
    A1 Tuesday 12:00-12:50 29-35, 37-42
    Wednesday 12:00-12:50 29-35, 37-42
    Thursday 12:00-12:50 29-35, 37-42

    Tutorial

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend
    A1 Friday 14:00-14:50 35, 37-42

    Workshop

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend
    A1 Friday 14:00-15:50 30, 32, 34
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