Solution of the Two Body Problem

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    Body Two body problem
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the two-body problem in physics, with participants exploring the existence of closed-form solutions and connections to the three-body problem, including references to Brun's theorem and Sundman's infinite-series solution.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks a closed-form solution to the two-body problem and expresses interest in understanding its relevance to the unsolvability of the three-body problem.
  • Another participant suggests a resource from scienceworld for the two-body problem.
  • A third participant mentions that Landau's text on Mechanics also covers the two-body problem.
  • A participant questions the relevance of Brun's theorem to the discussion, indicating a lack of clarity on the connection.
  • Another participant provides links to Brun's theorem, suggesting it may have some relevance.
  • One participant states that the three-body problem has an infinite-series solution derived by Sundman, noting its slow convergence makes it practically useless.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the relevance of Brun's theorem to the two-body problem or the implications of Sundman's solution for the three-body problem. Multiple competing views remain regarding the connections between these topics.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions regarding the applicability of Brun's theorem and the practical utility of Sundman's solution are not fully explored, leaving potential gaps in understanding.

Ed Quanta
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I have been trying to understand why the three body problem is unsolvable for some time now. But I realized that it would probably help to see a closed form solution to the two body problem first. I was wondering if anyone can direct me to such a solution via link or just shed some light on the topic. Peace.
 
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Try scienceworlds's Two-Body Problem entry. It's the second thing that came up on google.
 
It's done in Landau's text on Mechanics,too.

Daniel.
 
Ed Quanta said:
I have been trying to understand why the three body problem is unsolvable for some time now.

Have you gotten as far as Brun's theorem?
 
What's Brun's Theorem got to do with it?
I just looked up what it is.
 

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