Formulations

There are different ways of describing classical mechanics. Each has its individual strength and weaknesses, but in terms of observable predictions, they are all equivalent.

• Newtonian Mechanics $\leftrightarrow$ classical mechanics in real space
• Lagrangian Mechanics $\leftrightarrow$ classical mechanics in configuration space
• Hamiltonian Mechanics $\leftrightarrow$ classical mechanics in phase space
• Koopman-von-Neumann Mechanics $\leftrightarrow$ classical mechanics in Hilbert space

Roadmaps

Traditional Roadmap

Reading Recommendations

• The best book that gives a grand tour of classical mechanics is The Lazy Universe by Coopersmith

History

• A History of Mechanics by Dugas