What topics are covered in Keith R. Symon's Mechanics textbook?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Greg Bernhardt
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SUMMARY

Keith R. Symon's textbook "Mechanics" is a valuable resource for physics students, particularly noted for its thorough treatment of Kepler's problem and the forced harmonic oscillator. The book includes strong chapters on rigid body dynamics and even addresses general relativity in its later sections. Despite being published in 1979, it remains relevant and insightful, suggesting that instructors should consider reordering it for current students. The author's preference for Symon over other texts, such as Marion, highlights its effectiveness in preparing for physics qualifying exams.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of classical mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with Kepler's laws of planetary motion
  • Basic knowledge of harmonic oscillators
  • Introduction to general relativity concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Kepler's problem in classical mechanics
  • Study the dynamics of forced harmonic oscillators
  • Explore rigid body motion in physics
  • Investigate the fundamentals of general relativity
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Physics students, educators seeking effective teaching materials, and anyone interested in classical mechanics and its applications in advanced topics like general relativity.

For those who have used this book

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I note I am the only one reviewing this book so far. It is an old book I used in 1979 to study for physics qualifying exam. I used Marion (no Thornton in those days) classical mech but I thought Symon was better.
I especially liked his discussion of Kepler's problem and the forced harmonic oscillator. His rigid body chapters are also good (4 and 5). The later chapters even go into general relativity. All told I hope an instructor re-orders this old book for his students. I feel it may be a diamond in the rough.
 

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