Homework #7

Two parts, first part due by 5 pm Wednesday October 28^th.

Note that there will be no new homework next week as we will have our second exam!

• 5-18) A tides problem.
• 8-4) Playing with the standard orbit equation.
• 8-13) Note that the question is not exactly accurate. Only one of the three cases actually results in a precessing ellipse. I want you to describe what happens in each of the three situations.
• 8-16) Another playing with the ellipse equation problem.
• 8-23) And another.
• 8-35) Nearly circular orbits and the apsidal angle problem.

Second part won't even make sense right now but you will have lots of time for it and it will make sense well before it is due. Once you know what the falling chain problem is:-

• Research the literature of the falling chain problem. Research the literature and split the problem into three parts 1) historical development (up to 1970's) 2) The book's treatment and the papers that it references. 3) Recent work.
• Choose one paper from the literature that you feel plays an important part in the story and prepare a 10 minute presentation upon the findings discussed in that paper. Some detail is expected but obviously time limitations will require you to be very selective. In addition you must set the paper in the context of the whole history and current state of the problem.
• Obviously you must each choose different papers and are encouraged to consult with me as you prepare your presentation.
• The presentations will happen some time in early November and be split over two class days. I will give plenty of warning of the time.