Computer Algebra Recipes for Classical Mechanics

This work may be used as a source for algebra "recipes" for second year undergraduates. The book does not try to teach the fundamentals of the subject, rather the recipes are organised to correlate with topics found in standard classical mechanics texts. The book utilises the computer algebra system MAPLE (Release 7) but no prior knowledge of MAPLE is presumed. The relevant command structures are explained on a need-to-know basis as the recipes are developed thus making this a standalone text. The computer algebra recipes are introduced in the context of interesting tales and have been placed on a Windows Platform CD that accompanies the book. Mac and UNIX systems are also compatible. The CD also includes computer algebra solutions to hundreds of problems. This problem-solving guide can be used in a variety of ways: a classroom text, a reference text, a text for an on-line course, or as a self-study guide. It will benefit science professionals and engineers who need to quickly solve complex classical mechanics problems relevant to their work and it should prove useful for instructors seeking a modern approach to teaching the subject.