Intermediate Dynamics

This advanced undergraduate physics textbook presents an accessible treatment of classical mechanics using plain language and clear examples. While comprehensive, the book can be tailored to a one-semester course. An early introduction of the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms gives students an opportunity to utilize these important techniques in the easily visualized context of classical mechanics. The inclusion of 321 simple in-chapter exercises, 82 worked examples, 550 more challenging end-of-chapter problems, and 65 computational projects reinforce students' understanding of key physical concepts and give instructors freedom to choose from a wide variety of assessment and support materials. This new edition has been reorganized. Numerous sections were rewritten. New problems, a chapter on fluid dynamics, and brief optional studies of advanced topics such as general relativity and orbital mechanics have been incorporated. Online resources include a solutions manual for instructors, lecture slides, and a set of student-oriented video lectures.

Patrick Hamill has taught physics at San Jose State University for over thirty years. During that time he was honored by student organizations for teaching excellence and was named a 'President's Scholar' for his research activities in atmospheric science. He received the NASA Ames Julian Allen award for his studies of the role of polar stratospheric clouds in the formation of the ozone hole over the Antarctic. Dr. Hamill has published over 100 peer reviewed papers. He is the author of the Cambridge University Press text, A Student's Guide to Lagrangians and Hamiltonians.