A concise but rigorous treatment of variational techniques, focussing primarily on Lagrangian and Hamiltonian systems, this book is ideal for physics, engineering and mathematics students. The book begins by applying Lagrange's equations to a number of mechanical systems. It introduces the concepts of generalized coordinates and generalized momentum. Following this the book turns to the calculus of variations to derive the Euler-Lagrange equations. It introduces Hamilton's principle and uses this throughout the book to derive further results. The Hamiltonian, Hamilton's equations, canonical transformations, Poisson brackets and Hamilton-Jacobi theory are considered next. The book concludes by discussing continuous Lagrangians and Hamiltonians and how they are related to field theory. Written in clear, simple language and featuring numerous worked examples and exercises to help students master the material, this book is a valuable supplement to courses in mechanics.

Author: Patrick Hamill
Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 12/23/2013
Series: Student's Guides
Pages: 181
Weight: 0.7lbs
Size: 8.90h x 6.00w x 0.40d
ISBN: 9781107617520

About the Author
Hamill, Patrick: - Patrick Hamill is Professor Emeritus of Physics at San José State University. He has taught physics for over thirty years and his research interests are in celestial mechanics and atmospheric physics.