  We present a matrix formalism, inspired by the Minkowski four-vectors of
special relativity, useful to solve classical physics problems related to both
mechanics and thermodynamics. The formalism turns out to be convenient to deal
with exercises involving non-conservative forces and production or destruction
of mechanical energy. On the other hand, it provides a framework to treat
straightforwardly changes of inertial reference frames, since it embodies the
Principle of Relativity. We apply the formalism to a few cases to better show
how it works.
