Analytical Mechanics: An Introduction

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the book "Analytical Mechanics: An Introduction" by Antonio Fasano and S. Marmi, with participants sharing their opinions on its suitability as a textbook for mechanics. The scope includes recommendations for introductory texts on Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics, as well as personal experiences with various mechanics textbooks.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about the quality of "Analytical Mechanics: An Introduction" as a resource for learning mechanics.
  • One participant suggests that the book may not be suitable for beginners due to its abstract treatment of Hamiltonian dynamics.
  • Another participant shares their experience using "Mecânica Analítica" by Nivaldo Lemos, noting its similarity to Goldstein's "Classical Mechanics" and recommending it for a more geometric approach.
  • Recommendations for other texts include "Mathematical Methods of Classical Mechanics" by V. I. Arnold and "Classical Dynamics: A Contemporary Approach" by José & Saletan.
  • A participant expresses enjoyment of the exposition in Fasano-Marmi's book but advises caution regarding its chapter on continuous mechanics and ergodic theory, suggesting it covers many topics without exhaustive treatment.
  • There is a mention of an alternative Italian text, "Meccanica" by Gallavotti, for those who may prefer it.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the suitability of the Fasano-Marmi book for beginners, with some expressing positive experiences while others caution against its complexity. Multiple competing views on recommended texts for mechanics remain present.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note that the book covers a wide range of topics, but only fundamental theories are treated exhaustively. There is also a mention of the potential language barrier for non-Italian readers regarding the recommendation of Gallavotti's text.

d.zanellato
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Hello.

Someone knows the book: "Analytical Mechanics: An Introduction" by Antonio Fasano, S. Marmi?
Is this a good book on mechanics?



Thank you.
 
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Any recommendations for a text which provides an introduction to Lagrangian mechanics and continues on to Hamiltonian mechanics?
 
Last edited:
Ed Aboud said:
Bump

Any recommendations for a text which provides an introduction to Lagrangian mechanics and continues on to Hamiltonian mechanics?


The classical reference is "Classical Mechanics" by Herbert Goldstein.
In my course on Analytical Mechanics, here in Brazil, I used "Mecânica Analítica" by Nivaldo Lemos. It is very similar to Goldstein's book.

For a more geometric approach: "Mathematical Methods of Classical Mechanics", by V. I. Arnold or, for a more smooth transition, "Classical Dynamics: A Contemporary Approach" by José & Saletan.


Arnold's book will be my next fun :)
 
The Fasano-Marmi was my textbook during undergraduate studies -- I covered almost the whole book in two courses. To me it definitely doesn't seem a book for rookies: the part on hamiltonian dynamic is rather abstract though I enjoyed much the exposition. I eventually recommend for a course in basic mechanics, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian. Avoid the chapter on continuous mechanic and ergodic theory -- the book wants to cover lots of different topics though only fundamental theories are exhaustive and well-made. If you are Italian, you might want to take a look to "Meccanica" by Gallavotti too.

Ll.
 

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