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Continuum Mechanics 2
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:17
Abstract
An introduction to finite deformation continuum mechanics and nonlinear material behavior. Coverage of basic tensor- manipulations and calculus, descriptions of kinematics, and balance laws . Discussion of invariance principles and mechanical response functions for elastic materials.
Objective
To provide a modern introduction to the foundations of continuum mechanics and prepare students for further studies in solid mechanics and related disciplines.
Content
1. Tensors: algebra, linear operators 2. Tensors: calculus 3. Kinematics: motion, gradient, polar decomposition 4. Kinematics: strain 5. Kinematics: rates 6. Global Balance: mass, momentum 7. Stress: Cauchy's theorem 8. Stress: alternative measures 9. Invariance: observer 10. Material Response: elasticity
Resources
Lecture Notes
None.
Literature
Recommended texts: (1) Nonlinear solid mechanics, G.A. Holzapfel (2000). (2) An introduction to continuum mechanics, M.B. Rubin (2003).
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , DR , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 30 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Continuum Mechanics 2 |
|
2 h weekly |
| exercise | Continuum Mechanics 2 |
|
1 h weekly |
Offered In
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Engineering for Health (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Bradley Nelson)
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Design, Mechanics and Manufacturing (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Dennis Kochmann To achieve the required 20 credit points for the Focus Specialization Design, Mechanics and Manufacturing, all of the courses listed can be selected. If required, one course from another focus specialization or from the electives of the ME Bachelor program can be selected. For recommended courses and further information, please visit the MAVT website for Focus Specialization ( ).)
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Core Courses (The Core Courses in the Master’s program Mechanical Engineering listed below are indicative and include courses designed by the Department at the Master's level. With the approval of the tutor, students may also select Master's-level courses offered by other departments at ETH. These courses will be marked as non-regular in the LAG, but their categorization as Core Courses is possible if included in the approved LAG.)
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Electives (In the ‘electives’ subcategory, at least two course units must be successfully completed. All courses listed as core courses (not electives) for one of the following ETH MSc programmes, MSc Statistics, MSc Physics, MSc Computer Science, MSc (Applied) Mathematics, MSc Neural Systems and Computation, MSc Robotics, Systems, and Control, MSc Data Science, MSc Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, can be taken as an elective course in the MSc CSE without prior permission.)
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Application Area (Only necessary and eligible for the Master degree in Applied Mathematics. One of the application areas specified must be selected for the category Application Area for the Master degree in Applied Mathematics. At least 8 credits are required in the chosen application area. Credits from other application areas cannot be recognised for further application areas.)
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Doctorate Materials Science (Further information at: )
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