MECHANICS
MAT2MEC
2019
Credit points: 15
Subject outline
In this subject students deal with the kinematics and dynamics of a particle and systems of particles, and some of the types of differential equations which arise in the mathematical descriptions of the motions studied. The main mechanical topics emphasize the study of particle dynamics and conservation laws, rigid rotating bodies and the two body problem with central forces, based on Newton's second law of motion. The new solutions of differential equations considered are solutions of second order differential equations with non-constant coefficients, with expansions about ordinary points and regular singular points. The subject covers applications of forces, momentum and kinetic and potential energy, for particles and rigid bodies, with a focus on orbits of planets. The subject also covers the solution of wave equations in two and three dimensions. The main tools used are derived from concepts in MAT2VCA.
School: School Engineering&Mathematical Sciences
Credit points: 15
Subject Co-ordinator: Chris Taylor
Available to Study Abroad Students: Yes
Subject year level: Year Level 2 - UG
Exchange Students: Yes
Subject particulars
Subject rules
Prerequisites: MAT2VCA
Co-requisites: N/A
Incompatible subjects: N/A
Equivalent subjects: N/A
Special conditions: N/A
Graduate capabilities & intended learning outcomes
01. Build simple mathematical models of mechanical systems, using Newton's second law and the ideas of conservation of momentum, angular momentum and energy.
- Activities:
- Discussed and demonstrated in lectures. Related problems solved by students in practice classes. Assignment questions, with feedback.
02. Solve the linear differential equations that arise in mechanical modelling.
- Activities:
- Discussed and demonstrated in lectures. Related problems solved by students in practice classes. Assignment questions, with feedback.
03. Solve simple problems in the theory of planetary orbits.
- Activities:
- Discussed and demonstrated in lectures. Related problems solved by students in practice classes. Assignment questions, with feedback.
04. Solve partial differential equations in appropriate coordinates using the technique of separation of variables and the theory of series solutions for differential equations, and apply these solutions to the mechanics of continuous media.
- Activities:
- Discussed and demonstrated in lectures. Related problems solved by students in practice classes. Assignment questions, with feedback.
05. Communicate your understanding of mechanics using both words and precise mathematical symbolism.
- Activities:
- Discussed and demonstrated in lectures. Related problems solved by students in practice classes. Assignment questions, with feedback.
06. Explain mathematical arguments verbally to other students.
- Activities:
- Opportunities provided in practice classes
Melbourne, 2019, Semester 2, Day
Overview
Online enrolment: Yes
Maximum enrolment size: N/A
Enrolment information:
Subject Instance Co-ordinator: Chris Taylor
Class requirements
PracticalWeek: 31 - 43
Two 1.0 hours practical per week on weekdays during the day from week 31 to week 43 and delivered via face-to-face.
LectureWeek: 31 - 43
Two 1.0 hours lecture per week on weekdays during the day from week 31 to week 43 and delivered via face-to-face.
Assessments
| Assessment element | Comments | % | ILO* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active participation in blackboard practice classes (500 words equivalent) | 5 | 05, 06 | |
| Fortnightly assignments (equiv 1000 words) | 25 | 05, 04, 03, 02, 01 | |
| One 3-hour examination | 70 | 04, 03, 02, 01, 05 |