Classical Mechanics: Volume 1: Lectures on Theoretical Physics - Softcover

Tong, David

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1009594540 ISBN 13: 9781009594547

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2025

Synopsis

Any education in theoretical physics begins with the laws of classical mechanics. The basics of the subject were laid down long ago by Galileo and Newton and are enshrined in the famous equation F=ma that we all learn in school. But there is much more to the subject and, in the intervening centuries, the laws of classical mechanics were reformulated to emphasis deeper concepts such as energy, symmetry, and action. This textbook describes these different approaches to classical mechanics, starting with Newton's laws before turning to subsequent developments such as the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian approaches. The book emphasises Noether's profound insights into symmetries and conservation laws, as well as Einstein's vision of spacetime, encapsulated in the theory of special relativity. Classical mechanics is not the last word on theoretical physics. But it is the foundation for all that follows. The purpose of this book is to provide this foundation.

About this title

About the Author

David Tong is a Professor of Theoretical Physics at the University of Cambridge and a Fellow of Trinity College. He is known for his contributions to quantum field theory and its application to diverse areas of physics, including particle physics, condensed matter, cosmology, and quantum gravity. His lecture notes on theoretical physics have gained a global following due to their clear explanations and easy-going, accessible style.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2025
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1009594540
• ISBN 13: 9781009594547
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 436