̽»¨¾«Ñ¡

Course content

This course is based on FYS1100 – Mechanics and Modelling, and gives an introduction to classical mechanics. Analytical methods such as the principle of least action and Euler-Lagrange equations will be covered, but the course will also contain certain numerical methods e.g. for simulation of chaotic systems. The course gives a background for further studies in physics and similar disciplines.

Learning outcome

After completing the course, you are able to:

• use the definition of torque and static principles to analyze simple problems in statics.
• describe rotation for a rigid body by using torque, moment of inertia, and spin, and solve the equations of motion in special cases.
• analyze two-body problems and central forces, and be aware of Kepler's laws and gravitational interacting systems.
• qualitatively describe the properties of chaotic systems, and simulate the behavior of one such system using numerical integration methods.
• use Taylor expansion to predict oscillation in potential wells, and find the frequency of the oscillations.
• transform between different frames, including noninertial frames such as rotating or accelerating systems, and derive pseudo forces such as Coriolis and centrifugal forces.
• explain and use Lagrange mechanics for systems with and without constraints, in addition to the most central theory of Hamilton mechanics.
• use Euler-Lagrange and the principle of least action to derive the equations of motions of complex systems, simulate one such system numerically, and compare to an analytic solution in a restricted regime where it exists.
• Vector fields: Describe and use divergence, gradient, and curl independent of coordinates, including physical interpretations; understand and be able to use Stokes' theorem and the divergence theorem. 
• describe and use the basic equations in fluid mechanics, in addition to viscosity, and deformation and stress in solids.

Admission to the course

Students who are admitted to study programmes ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for .

Special admission requirements

In addition to fulfilling the , applicants have to meet the following special admission requirements:

• Mathematics R1 (or Mathematics S1 and S2) + R2

And in addition one of these:

• Physics (1+2)
• Chemistry (1+2)
• Biology (1+2)
• Information technology (1+2)
• Geosciences (1+2)
• Technology and theories of research (1+2)

The special admission requirements may also be covered by (in Norwegian).

Recommended previous knowledge

• FYS1100 – Mechanics and Modelling or equivalent
• MAT1100 – Calculus or equivalent

MAT1110 – Calculus and Linear Algebra is also recommended, normally you will take this course in the same semester

Teaching

The teaching consists of the following per week:

• 2 hours of lectures followed by 2 hours of seminar teaching

• 2 hours of lectures followed by 2 hours of group teaching

Compulsory assignments: 7 weekly assignments must be handed in and approved. Additionally, there will be a mandatory mid-term project.

The 7 weekly assignments and the mandatory mid-term project must be approved before you can sit the final exam.

Examination

• Final written exam, 4 hours, which counts 100 % towards the final grade. 

This course has mandatory exercises that must be approved before you can sit the final exam.

Examination support material

• Rottman: "Matematisk formelsamling"

Language of examination

The examination text is given in Norwegian. You may submit your response in Norwegian, Swedish, Danish or English.

Grading scale

Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about .

Resit an examination

This course offers both postponed and resit of examination. Read more:

More about examinations ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡

• Use of sources and citations
• Special exam arrangements due to individual needs
• Withdrawal from an exam
• Illness at exams / postponed exams
• Explanation of grades and appeals
• Resitting an exam
• Cheating/attempted cheating

You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡.