Computer Algebra Recipes for Classical Mechanics

Hundreds of novel and innovative computer algebra "recipes" will enable readers starting at the second year undergraduate level to easily and rapidly solve and explore most problems they encounter in their classical mechanics studies. While the aim is not to try and teach the fundamentals of the subject, the recipes are organized to correlate with topics found in standard classical mechanics texts.Using the powerful computer algebra system MAPLE (Release 8) --- no prior knowledge of MAPLE is presumed --- the relevant command structures are explained on a need-to-know basis as the recipes are developed. This is a self-contained and standalone text, similar only in style and format to Computer Algebra Recipes: A Gourmet's Guide to the Mathematical Models of Science, ISBN 0-387-95148-2, Springer New York. The computer algebra recipes are introduced in the context of interesting tales, a teaching approach that has been successfully classroom tested by the authors. For the reader's convenience, all recipes have been placed on a Windows Platform CD-ROM that comes with the book; MAC and UNIX systems are also compatible. The CD-ROM also includes computer algebra solutions to hundreds of problems.This new problem-solving guide can serve in a variety of ways: for use in the classroom or self-study, for reference, or as a text for an on-line course. Science professionals, engineers who need to quickly solve complex classical mechanics problems relevant to their work, and instructors seeking a modern approach to teaching this venerable subject will find this work an invaluable resource.