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402-2203-01L 7 Credits BSC , MSC D-MATH , D-PHYS , D-CHAB

Classical Mechanics

Allgemeine Mechanik

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Niklas Beisert

A repetition week is offered in cw45.

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:51

Abstract

Conceptual and methodical introduction to theoretical physics by taking the example of classical mechanics. Discussion of Lagrangian and Hamiltonian descriptions as well as symmetries and conserved quantities.

Objective

Basic/fundamental understanding of nonrelativistic mechanics in Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulation. Capability/competence in applying these formulations to various classical problems: Kepler problem, translation and rotation of rigid bodies (gyroscope) as well as oscillations. Understanding of the standard formulations of relativistic mechanics.

Content

• Newtonian Mechanics • two-body systems, Kepler problem • oscillators • rigid body • relativistic mechanics • Lagrangian formalism • symmetries and conserved quantities • Hamiltonian formalism

General Information

Language: German
Levels: BSC , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: written 180 minutes
Aids: keine

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Allgemeine Mechanik	No time listed	4 h weekly
exercise	Allgemeine Mechanik	No time listed	2 h weekly

Offered In

Computational Science and Engineering Bachelor
- Electives (In the ‘electives’ subcategory, at least two course units must be successfully completed.)
Mathematics Bachelor
- Minor Courses
Physics Bachelor
- Second and Third Year Compulsory Courses
  - Examination Blocks
    - Examination Block I
Interdisciplinary Sciences Bachelor
- Physical-Chemical Direction
  - 3. Semester (Physical-Chemical Direction)
    - Electives (The Bachelor's programme in Interdisciplinary Sciences allows students to choose from any subject taught at a Bachelor level at ETH Zurich. In consultation with the Director of Studies of Interdisciplinary Sciences, every student must establish his/her own individual study programme at the beginning of the 2nd year. See the Programme Regulations 2018 for further details.)
Mathematics Master
- 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.)
  - Theoretical Physics (In the Master's programme in Applied Mathematics 402-0205-00L Quantum Mechanics I is eligible as a course unit in the application area Theoretical Physics, but only if 402-0224-00L Theoretical Physics wasn't or isn't recognised for credits (neither in the Bachelor's nor in the Master's programme). For the category assignment take contact with the Study Administration Office ( ) after having received the credits.)