Mechanical systems, classical models. Volume 3: Analytical mechanics (Q1022047)

[For the review of vol. 1, 2 see Zbl 1148.70002; Zbl 1158.70001.] The book includes seven chapters: 18. Lagrangian mechanics; 19. Hamiltonian mechanics; 20. Variational principles. Canonical transformations; 21. Other considerations on analytical methods in dynamics of discrete mechanical systems; 22. Dynamics of non-holonomic mechanical systems; 23. Stability and vibrations; 24. Dynamical systems; Catastrophes and chaos. A good presentation of the contents of the book gives the following fragment from the preface: ``Mechanics has as object the study of mechanical systems. The first two volumes of this book dealt with particle dynamics and with discrete and continuous mechanical systems, respectively. The present one deals with analytical mechanics. We put in evidence Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics, where the study of first integrals plays a very important role. The Hamilton--Jacobi method is widely considered, as well as the study of systems with separate variables. We mention also a thorough study of variational principles and canonical transformations. The symmetry transformations, including Noether's theorem, lead to conservation laws. Integral invariants and exterior differential calculus are also included. A particular attention has been given to non-holonomic mechanical systems. Problems of stability and vibrations have been also considered in the frame of Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics. The study of dynamical systems leads to catastrophes, bifurcations and chaos.'' As a reader, I can add that it is a voluminous course on analytical mechanics, and it covers its main directions. Also important for mechanics contiguous domains are explained: stability theory, control theory and computer-oriented topics such as chaos, bifurcations and catastrophes. The presentation of material is carefully thought out and combines the exactness, completeness and simplicity that helps in understanding of the material. A particular impression makes the rich bibliography and the completeness of author's scope. This book is one of the best modern courses on analytical mechanics, developing the classical courses of such authors as Whittaker, Goldstein and Lurie. Undoubtedly, this course will be useful for scientists, engineers, teachers and students.