Chapter 1: Preface
This textbook provides you with an overview of the methods to analyse and predict the dynamic motion of point masses and rigid bodies in the twodimensional plane based on Newton’s laws. The book is aimed at first-year bachelor students in science and engineering. The recommended prerequisite knowledge for the textbook includes high-school physics, basic calculus (differentiation and integration), vector algebra, linear ordinary differential equations, and knowledge of statics. Furthermore, the gradient is introduced from vector calculus. Most concepts are briefly introduced, such that this textbook might in principle also be used by readers without this prerequisite knowledge.
In case you spot errors, inaccuracies or if you have other suggestions to improve this textbook it would be highly appreciated if you send your feedback to p.g.steeneken@tudelft.nl .