Best Classical Mechanics textbook for undergrad level

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Recommended textbooks for undergraduate Classical Mechanics that cover Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations include "Classical Mechanics" by John Taylor, which is praised for its explanations but criticized for verbosity. "Analytical Mechanics" by Fowles & Cassiday is used by some schools but seen as incomplete. The first and second editions of "Classical Dynamics" by Marion are preferred by some over the newer editions by Thornton due to changes in content. "Landau and Lifgarbagez" is noted for its advanced approach, while "Classical Mechanics" by R. D. Gregory and David Morin's "Introduction to Classical Mechanics" are also highly recommended for their clarity and problem sets. Overall, these texts provide a range of perspectives and depth for studying Classical Mechanics at the undergraduate level.
timothyc
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What would be your go-to textbook for Classical Mechanics at the undergraduate level?
It must also cover the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulation.

My school uses "Analytical Mechanics" by Fowles & Cassiday but I find it not very complete and doesn't cover all topics. I've also read parts of "Classical Mechanics" by John Taylor and find the explanations to be very good but the book is way too verbose.

What texts would you recommend for Classical Mechanics?

Thanks!
 
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I learned from the 1st edition of Marion, Classical Dynamics, and liked it. Seems a lot of people don't like the changes that new author Thornton introduced starting in the 3rd edition, so you might try getting a hold of the 1st or 2nd editions.

Landau and Lifgarbagez is advanced, but has a beautiful approach to teaching the topic. You might follow along there, or wait until you've completed your course and then read L&L for a different perspective.
 
marcusl said:
I learned from the 1st edition of Marion, Classical Dynamics, and liked it. Seems a lot of people don't like the changes that new author Thornton introduced starting in the 3rd edition, so you might try getting a hold of the 1st or 2nd editions.

Landau and Lifgarbagez is advanced, but has a beautiful approach to teaching the topic. You might follow along there, or wait until you've completed your course and then read L&L for a different perspective.

Thanks, I'll check out the second edition of Marion first. Perhaps Landau and Lifgarbagez can wait.

Over 200 views and only one reply, can't say how much I appreciate your help.
 
Over 200 views and only one reply, can't say how much I appreciate your help.

I think a big chunk of that is search bots, but I'm not sure.
 
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Likes yeshuamo
Landau and Lifgarbagez or Goldstein all the way!
 
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Likes Pawan kumar0212
If slightly different notation is not a problem for you (it´s a big one for some students), try Greiner's Classical mechanics: systems of particles and hamiltonian dynamics. The way Greriner explains worked out problems is a big plus in my opinion.
 

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