The discussion centers on the study of celestial mechanics, particularly the interest in rigorous mathematical texts versus practical physics applications. Participants recommend Abraham and Marsden's "Foundations of Mechanics" for its abstract mathematical exposition, while cautioning that it may not effectively teach practical problem-solving. Additionally, the importance of understanding Hamiltonian formalism and Hamiltonian perturbation theories is highlighted as essential for serious study in celestial mechanics. The desire for mathematical derivations, such as the elliptical nature of solar orbits, is also expressed.
PREREQUISITESStudents and educators in physics, particularly those focusing on classical mechanics and celestial mechanics, as well as researchers seeking a deeper mathematical understanding of orbital dynamics.
I want to see the mathematical derivation of things like why orbits around the sun are elliptical in Taylor book, thanks for the recommendations!ergospherical said:Are you sure you're after mathematical rigour? Abraham and Marsden's book Foundations of Mechanics contains a ridiculously abstract and mathematically-sophisticated exposition of celestial mechanics but it won't teach you much physics, or indeed how to solve many practical problems (!).