University of St Andrews - Scotland's first university, founded 1413

Module Catalogue

For information on which modules are specific to your programme, please see : Programme requirements index 2018-2019.

Curricular information may be subject to change.

MT4507 Classical Mechanics

Academic year(s): 2018-2019

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: Not automatically available to General Degree students

Planned timetable: 10.00 am Mon (even weeks), Tue and Thu

The object of this module is to introduce students to some of the ideas and mathematical techniques used in understanding the behaviour of dynamical systems that obey Newton's Laws. These notions are arguably the foundations of physics and applied mathematics. The module will include: Newton's laws of motion; conservative forces; central forces; non-inertial/accelerating frames of reference; dynamics of a system of particles; mechanics of a rigid body; Euler's equations; Lagrange's equations; Hamilton's equations.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must ( pass MT2506 or pass PH3081 ) and pass MT3504

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take PH4038

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2.5 lectures (weeks 1 - 10) and 1 tutorial (weeks 2 - 11).

Scheduled learning hours: 35

Guided independent study hours: 115

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 100%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 0%

Re-assessment: 2-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Dr V Archontis