Definite integrals and Functionals

In summary, the conversation discusses the definition and application of functionals, which are mappings of a set of functions to real numbers. The examples given are definite integrals, such as mechanical work and entropy change, which can be expressed as functionals using the Lagrangian. The conversation also mentions the role of dependent variables and their derivatives in creating simple forms for Euler-Lagrange equations.
  • #1
jamie.j1989
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Taken from Emmy Noether's wonderful theorem by Dwight. E Neuenschwander. Page 28

1. Homework Statement

Under what circumstances are these definite integrals functionals;
a) Mechanical work as a particle moves from position a to position b, while acted upon by a force F.

$$W=\int_a^b\boldsymbol{F}\bullet d\boldsymbol{r},\qquad (1)$$

b) The Entropy change ##\Delta S##, in terms of heat ##dQ## added to a system at absolute temperature T, for a change of thermodynamic state from a to b.

$$\Delta S=\int_a^b\frac{dQ}{T},\qquad (2)$$

Homework Equations


A functional ##\Gamma## is a mapping of a well defined set of functions onto the real numbers. And is given by the definite integral

$$\Gamma=\int_a^bL(q^\mu,\dot{q}^\mu,t)dt,\qquad (3)$$
Where L is the Lagrangian of the functional and the label ##\mu## on the generalised coordinates ##q## distinguishes between N dependent variables.

The Attempt at a Solution


For a). From the above definition of ##\Gamma## we can compare (1) and (3), if the force F is compared to the Lagrangian in the functional then it needs to be a function of the independent variable r ?

And similarly for b), if the absolute temperature of the system in (2) is a function of the heat then the definite integral is a functional?

Is it an issue if they aren't functions of a dependent variable ##q## and it's first derivative ##q'## with respect to the independent variable?
 
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  • #2
jamie.j1989 said:
Is it an issue if they aren't functions of a dependent variable q and it's first derivative q' with respect to the independent variable?
In general I don't think so, but it would be hard to get Euler-Lagrange equations then, if the form is not simple.
The definition of 'functional' is quite general. E.g. see:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Functional_(mathematics)
 
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Related to Definite integrals and Functionals

1. What is the difference between a definite integral and a functional?

A definite integral is a mathematical operation that calculates the area under a curve between two given points. On the other hand, a functional is a mathematical expression that takes a function as its input and produces a real number as its output. In simpler terms, a definite integral is a number, while a functional is a function.

2. How are definite integrals and functionals used in real-world applications?

Definite integrals are commonly used in physics and engineering to calculate quantities such as displacement, velocity, and acceleration. Functionals are used in optimization problems, where the goal is to find the function that maximizes or minimizes the output of the functional.

3. What is the fundamental theorem of calculus and how does it relate to definite integrals and functionals?

The fundamental theorem of calculus states that the definite integral of a function f(x) can be calculated by finding the antiderivative of f(x) and evaluating it at the upper and lower limits of integration. This theorem connects the concept of a definite integral to that of an antiderivative, which is a key idea in understanding functionals.

4. Can definite integrals and functionals be evaluated numerically?

Yes, both definite integrals and functionals can be evaluated numerically using methods such as the trapezoidal rule or Simpson's rule for integrals, and various numerical optimization algorithms for functionals. These methods are commonly used when the integrals or functionals cannot be solved analytically.

5. How do you determine the bounds of integration for a definite integral?

The bounds of integration for a definite integral depend on the problem at hand. In some cases, they may be given explicitly, while in others, they may need to be determined by analyzing the problem and understanding the limits of the function being integrated. It is important to carefully consider the problem and choose appropriate bounds of integration to obtain an accurate result.

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