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Module MA1241: Mechanics I

Credit weighting (ECTS)

5 credits

Semester/term taught

Michaelmas term 2015-16

Contact Hours

11 weeks, 3 lectures including tutorials per week

Lecturer

Prof Jan Manschot

Learning Outcomes

 

Module Content

• Mathematical preliminaries (vectors and their role in mechanics, elements of vector algebra.);
• Kinematics;
• Newton's Laws: the foundations of classical mechanics;
• Linear momentum (dynamics of multi-particle systems, centre of mass, conservation of momentum, impulse);
• Work and energy (definition of work and the work-energy theorem, potential and kinetic energy);
• Potential and kinetic energy (conservative and non-conservative forces, conservation of energy);
• Angular momentum (torque, conservation of angular momentum);
• Moment of inertia (motion involving translation and rotation).

 

Module Prerequisite

None

Required Reading

D. Kleppner, R. J. Kolenkow, An Introduction to Mechanics, 2nd edition, Cambridge University Press

 

Assessment Detail

This module will be examined in a 2-hour examination in Trinity term. The final grade will consist of 80% exam and 20% continuous assessment. Supplemental exams if required will consist of 100% exam