Complete Guide

Classical Mechanics

The fundamental theory describing the motion of macroscopic objects under forces. From falling apples to planetary orbits, understand the principles that govern motion in our universe through mathematical rigor and interactive exploration.

Explore Topics Interactive Sims Learning Path
7
Core Topics
1687
First Published
3
Fundamental Laws
∞
Applications

Core Topics

Master the fundamental theories that form the foundation of classical mechanics

Newtonian Mechanics

The foundation of classical physics based on Newton's three laws of motion. Study forces, motion, and their relationships.

\( \vec{F} = m\vec{a} \)
Newton's Laws Forces Work & Energy
Explore Newtonian Mechanics

Oscillations & Waves

Study periodic motion, harmonic oscillators, wave phenomena, and their mathematical descriptions.

\( x(t) = A\cos(\omega t + \phi) \)
SHM Damped Oscillations Wave Equation
Explore Oscillations

Lagrangian Mechanics

A more general formulation using the principle of least action and generalized coordinates.

\( \mathcal{L} = T - V \)
Generalized Coordinates Euler-Lagrange Noether's Theorem
Explore Lagrangian

Hamiltonian Mechanics

Phase space formulation and symplectic structure, providing the foundation for quantum mechanics.

\( H = \sum p_i \dot{q}_i - \mathcal{L} \)
Phase Space Hamilton's Eqs Poisson Brackets
Explore Hamiltonian

Orbital Mechanics

Study of central forces, Kepler's laws, gravitational systems, and celestial mechanics.

\( F = G\frac{m_1 m_2}{r^2} \)
Kepler's Laws Gravitation Orbits
Explore Orbital Mechanics

Non-Inertial Frames

Analysis of motion in accelerating reference frames, including centrifugal and Coriolis forces.

\( \vec{F}_{\text{fictitious}} = -m\vec{a}_{\text{frame}} \)
Rotating Frames Centrifugal Coriolis
Explore Non-Inertial Frames

Recommended Learning Path

Follow this structured path to master classical mechanics systematically

Step 1: Foundation

Newtonian Mechanics Basics

Start with Newton's laws, forces, work, energy, and momentum to build fundamental understanding.

Topics:

  • Newton's Three Laws
  • Forces (Gravity, Friction)
  • Work & Energy Theorem
Step 2: Applications

Oscillations & Rotational Motion

Understand periodic motion, rotational dynamics, and their applications in real systems.

Topics:

  • Simple Harmonic Motion
  • Rotational Dynamics
  • Angular Momentum
Step 3: Advanced

Advanced Formulations

Learn Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations that connect classical mechanics to modern physics.

Topics:

  • Lagrangian Mechanics
  • Hamiltonian Mechanics
  • Noether's Theorem

Interactive Simulations

Explore classical mechanics principles through interactive simulations. Adjust parameters and observe real-time effects.

Projectile Motion

Explore how initial velocity and launch angle affect the trajectory of a projectile under gravity.

Range: 5-50 m/s
Range: 10-80°
10.2 m
Max Height
40.8 m
Range
2.9 s
Flight Time

Spring-Mass System

Explore Hooke's law and simple harmonic motion in a spring-mass system with damping.

0.63 s
Period
1.59 Hz
Frequency
1.0 m
Amplitude

Simple Pendulum

Investigate how length, mass, and amplitude affect the period of a simple pendulum.

Range: 0.5-5 m
Range: 5-80°
2.84 s
Period
0.35 Hz
Frequency

Real-World Applications

Classical mechanics forms the foundation for numerous technologies and engineering applications

Aerospace Engineering

Rocket trajectory calculations, orbital mechanics, satellite deployment, and re-entry vehicle dynamics.

Orbital Dynamics Rocket Equations

Robotics

Kinematics, dynamics of robotic arms, motion planning, and control systems.

Kinematics Dynamics

Civil Engineering

Structural analysis, bridge design, earthquake engineering, and foundation mechanics.

Structural Analysis Earthquake Engineering

Learning Resources

Download materials, explore tools, and continue your physics journey

Numerical Methods

Computational approaches to solving physics problems numerically.

Physics Library

Download PDFs, research papers, and study materials on physics topics.

Python Tools

Python libraries and tools for physics simulations and calculations.