Help with derivation of euler-lagrange equations

In summary, the conversation discusses how to perform a step in the derivation of the Euler-Lagrange equations. It involves using integration by parts to get from one expression to another. The integral over the function f (dL/dx) can be ignored and the final step involves using partial integration.
  • #1
teeeeee
14
0
Hi,

I am trying to follow a derivation of the euler lagrange equations in one of my textbooks. It says that

[tex]\int ( f\frac{dL}{dx} + f'\frac{dL}{dx'}) dt[/tex]

=

[tex]f\frac{dL}{dx'} + \int f ( \frac{dL}{dx} - \frac{d}{dt}(\frac{dL}{dx'}) ) dt [/tex]

where f is an arbitrary function and L is the Lagrangian.I'm not sure how to perform this step. I think it has something to do with integration by parts but can't work it out. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks
teeeeee
 
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  • #2
The integral over f (dL/dx) can be ignored, it simply sits in both expressions. So your question is, how do you get from

[tex]\int \frac{df}{dt} \frac{dL}{dx'}[/tex]
to
[tex]f \frac{dL}{dx'} - \int f \frac{d}{dt} \frac{dL}{dx'}[/tex]

right?
Because that is just partial integration in its purest form:
[tex]\int f' g = f g - \int f g'[/tex]
where g = dL/dx'.
 

FAQ: Help with derivation of euler-lagrange equations

What is the Euler-Lagrange equation?

The Euler-Lagrange equation is a mathematical equation used in the field of calculus of variations to find the functions or curves that minimize a certain functional. It is named after Swiss mathematician Leonhard Euler and Italian-French mathematician Joseph-Louis Lagrange.

What is the significance of Euler-Lagrange equations in physics?

The Euler-Lagrange equations play a crucial role in physics, particularly in classical mechanics and field theory. They can be used to derive the equations of motion for a physical system and to analyze the behavior of systems under different conditions.

How are Euler-Lagrange equations derived?

The Euler-Lagrange equations are derived using the calculus of variations, which involves finding the minimum or maximum value of a functional. This is done by setting up a variation of the functional and using the fundamental lemma of the calculus of variations to find the necessary conditions for the minimum or maximum.

What are some real-world applications of Euler-Lagrange equations?

Euler-Lagrange equations have a wide range of applications in various fields such as physics, engineering, economics, and optimization. They are used to solve problems related to optimal control, optimal design, and optimal scheduling, among others.

Are there any alternative methods to derive the Euler-Lagrange equations?

Yes, there are alternative methods to derive the Euler-Lagrange equations such as the Hamilton's principle and the Noether's theorem. These methods offer different perspectives and can be used to derive the equations in a more efficient way for certain types of problems.

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