I have a big problem with Mechanics. Can someone help?
My Mechanics III exam is in two weeks and it will cover the following topics. What mechanics textbook can I use for reading the these topics?
- Motion in 2 - dimensions (Use of Polar Coordinates)
- Circular Motion
- Conical Pendulum
- Constrained Motion in a circle (and vertical circle)
- Simple Harmonic Motion
- Motion in a resisting medium
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- Vertical Motion under Gravity
- Damped Harmonic Motion
- Projectiles in resisting motion
- Variables Mass Motion
- Dynamics of Rigid Bodies
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- Product of Inertia, Principal axis
- Momental Ellipse, Virtual work and D'Alembert's Principle
I must say that I've never known Mechanics. I used to memorise formulas for objective exams. But this time around, it's in theory and that won't work.
The lecturer recommended A Shorter Intermediate Mechanics by Humphrey and Toppings.
I've gone through this textbook and it was not explanatory for me at all.
I also did my own research and checked these textbook:
- Goldstein Classical Mechanics
- University Physics
- Classical Mechanics by John R. Taylor
Of the three, I only found University Physics to be explanatory to an extent.
I'm searching for something that is more explanatory than it and is also self-explanatory.
Please, can you recommend textbooks or videos or anything that can help?
At this point, I'm frustrated and I would have given up but I want to try my best and also avoid guilt conscience.
I really appreciate any help I get in advance.
This is an example of what my exam questions look like.
