Problem Set 10 (due Dec.

3, 2015 before class)

10.1

Canonical transformations and generating functions

(1 point)

The transformation equations between two sets of coordinates are





Q = ln 1 + q 1/2 cos p ;
P = 2 1 + q 1/2 cos p q 1/2 sin p.
Show directly from these transformation equations that Q, P are canonical
variables if q and p are.
Show that the function that generates this transformation is F3 = (eQ
1)2 tan p.

10.2

Hamiltonian and canonical transformations (1 point)

Goldstein, 3rd edition: Exercise 25 (chapter 9).

10.3

Canonical transformation (0.75 point)

Goldstein, 3rd edition: Derivation 1 (chapter 10).

10.4

Canonical transformation (1.25 point)

Goldstein, 3rd edition: Exercise 22 (chapter 9).

10.5

OPTIONAL: Symmetrical top (1.5 point)

A symmetrical top with one point fixed in a uniform gravitational field has a
Hamiltonian given by
H=

p2
p2
(p p cos )2
+
+
+ mgl cos .
2I0
2I3
2I0 sin2

Use Hamiltons principle function to reduce the problem to quadratures.