CATALOG DATA:
A first-year graduate course that introduces the subject of continuum mechanics, including derivation of fundamental equations and the development of constitutive equations characterizing the behavior of idealized materials.

TEXTBOOK:
Mase, G. T. amd Mase, G. E., Continuum Mechanics for Engineers, CRC Press, 1999.

GOALS:
To introduce students to the topic of continuum mechanics, with analysis of the kinematic and mechanical behavior of materials modeled on the continuum assumption (where size scales far exceed molecular distances). This includes the derivation of fundamental equations, based on the classical laws of physics, and the development of constitutive equations characterizing the behavior of idealized materials, such as the elastic solid and the viscous fluid. These equations provide a starting point for the study of elasticity, viscoelasticity, fluid mechanics, and plasticity. The course also provides important background for studying more advanced topics in continuum mechanics, such as wave propagation, thermoelasticity, piezoelectricity, electromagnetic fluid mechanics, and magnetohydrodynamic fluid mechanics.

Prerequisites:
Familiarity with traditional mathematics including matrices, geometry, differential and integral calculus, and ordinary and partial differential equations in three-dimensional space.

Topics:

• Introduction
• Vectors and Tensors
• Concepts of Stress
• Deformation and Motion
• Fundamental Laws
• Constitutive Equations
• Field Equations

ABET category content as estimated by faculty member who prepared the course description:
Engineering Science: 3 credits or 100%
Engineering Design: 0 credits

Prepared by: Professor Timothy Ovaert
Last Update: April 12, 2004

Direct comments, questions, and corrections to amedept@nd.edu