Which classical mechanics textbook is best for me?

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The discussion centers on recommendations for studying classical mechanics, particularly focusing on advanced topics such as Euler-Lagrange equations, Lagrange and Hamilton mechanics, Noether's theorem, KAM theorem, Bertrand's theorem, and Poisson's brackets. Participants express a preference for books that provide plenty of examples and exercises. The original poster mentions owning Arnold's 'Mathematical Methods of Classical Mechanics' and Kibble's 'Classical Mechanics,' while considering Landau and Lifshitz's 'Mechanics' for its concise approach. Although Arnold's book is noted as complex for undergraduates, Kibble's work is appreciated for its Newtonian focus. David Tong's lecture notes are highlighted as an excellent resource, comparable to classic texts, and are recommended for their clarity and comprehensive coverage of the subject matter. The poster expresses a desire to print Tong's notes for personal study, indicating a preference for learning from books over lecture notes.
irycio
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Which one would you recommend for me?
Topics I'd like to have covered (most important ones):
-Euler-Lagrange's equations
-Lagrange's and Hamilton's approach to mechanics
-Noether's theorem
-KAM theorem
-Bertrand's theorem
-Poisson's brackets

Plenty of examples and exercises would be great too.

Now I have Arnold's 'Mathematical methods of classical mechanics', Kibble's 'Classical mechanics', I'm going to buy Landau's and Lifschitz's 'Mechanics'.
First one is obviously overcomplicated for an undergraduate, nevertheless nice to read. Kibble seems to concentrate on Newton's approach mostly, although I like the chapters I've read. Landau seems to be nice too, though it seems to be quite short.

Anything else you could recommend?
 
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irycio said:
Anything else you could recommend?

There are many good books, but I'm very impressed with David Tong's notes. I think they are as good as any of the classics, such as Landau and Lifgarbagez. Note that his notes begin with a list of recommended books.

http://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/user/tong/dynamics/clas.pdf
 
Oh, this seems to be nice.
I mean, the program of my lecture is nearly the same (as if it could differ, huh?) and I do actually attend those classes, I just prfere learning from books than from notes. And so, Tong's notes seem to be brilliant, guess I'll just have to have them printed so that I can learn from them in my bed.
Cheers :)
 
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