Physics of Continuous Media

The physics of continuous media studies materials that are treated as continuous rather than discrete particles, like fluids or solids. In Hamiltonian mechanics, which focuses on energy and motion, we can describe these materials by averaging properties over small volumes. This allows us to apply principles like momentum and energy conservation to complex systems, making it easier to analyze how they deform or flow. By using mathematical models, we can predict behaviors such as wave propagation or stress distribution, giving insight into everything from engineering materials to natural phenomena like earthquakes.