PHY 711 Classical Mechanics
Computational Project
The purpose of this assignment is to provide an opportunity for you to study
a topic of your choice in greater depth. The general guideline for your
choice of project is that it should have something to do with classical
mechanics, and there should be some degree of computation associated with the
project. The completed project will include a short write-up and a ~20min
presentation to the class. You may design your own project or use one of
the following list (which will be updated throughout the term).
Consider a scattering experiment in which you specify the
spherically symetric interaction
potential V(r). Write a computer program (using your favorite language)
to evaluate the scattering cross section for your system. (Depending on
your choice, you may wish to present your results either in the
the center-of-mass or lab frames of reference.)
Consider the Foucoult Pendulum. Analyze the equations of motion
including both the horizontal and vertical motions. You can either solve
the equations exactly or use perturbation theory. Compare the effects of
the vertical motion to the effects of air friction.
Consider a model system of 3 or more interacting particles with
appropriate initial conditions, using numerical methods to find out how
the system evolves in time and space.
Examine the normal modes of vibration for a model system with 3 or more
masses in 2 or 3 dimensions.
Analyze the soliton equations beyond what was covered in class.