Computer Algebra Recipes for Classical Mechanics

ISBN-13: 9780817642914 / Angielski / Miękka / 2002 / 265 str.

Richard H. Enns;George C. McGuire

Opis

Hundreds of novel and innovative computer algebra "recipes" will enable readers starting at the second year undergraduate level to easily and rapidly solve and explore most problems they encounter in their classical mechanics studies. While the aim is not to try and teach the fundamentals of the subject, the recipes are organized to correlate with topics found in standard classical mechanics texts.Using the powerful computer algebra system MAPLE (Release 8) --- no prior knowledge of MAPLE is presumed --- the relevant command structures are explained on a need-to-know basis as the recipes are developed. This is a self-contained and standalone text, similar only in style and format to Computer Algebra Recipes: A Gourmet's Guide to the Mathematical Models of Science, ISBN 0-387-95148-2, Springer New York. The computer algebra recipes are introduced in the context of interesting tales, a teaching approach that has been successfully classroom tested by the authors.This new problem-solving guide can serve in a variety of ways: for use in the classroom or self-study, for reference, or as a text for an on-line course. Science professionals, engineers who need to quickly solve complex classical mechanics problems relevant to their work, and instructors seeking a modern approach to teaching this venerable subject will find this work an invaluable resource.

Recenzje

"[The authors'] purpose is not simply to rehash...classical topics, but rather to show how a computer algebra system (CAS) may be used as a pedagogical tool to carry out both standard numerical computations and complicated symbolic manipulations in the context of classical mechanics.... Other interesting features of the book include the use of a relevant quotation at the beginning of each section and the creation of story problems to introduce and illustrate virtually every topic, making the book more readable and accessible to students. ...Recommended."

-Choice

". . . it can be a very useful complementary tool to classical lectures in the field of classical mechanics. Using this text as a unique basis for a course in classical mechanics is possible . . ."

-Mathematical Reviews

"This is a textbook discussing the use of computer algebra for computations in elementary classical mechanics. It is based on the system Maple 8; no prior knowledge of it is required. . . . The book gives a solid introduction into the basic use of Maple. . . . The book should serve well as an exercise or lab book accompanying a standard course on elementary classical mechanics."

-Zentralblatt Math

Spis treści

Preface Introduction Part I. The Appetizers Vectors and Kinematics Newtonian Mechanics Part II. The Entrees Vector Calculus Newtonian Dynamics I Newtonian Dynamics II Part III. The Desserts Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Dynamics Bibliography Index