Simplifying the Euler-Lagrange Equation for Explicitly Independent Functions

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of the Euler-Lagrange equation to replace the partial derivative of f with respect to y in the given equation. This results in an extra term that cannot be eliminated. The solution involves working backwards to find the derivative of df/dx.
  • #1
roeb
107
1

Homework Statement



If the integrand f(y, y', x) does not depend explicitly on x, that is, f = f(y, y') then
[tex]\frac{df}{dx} = \frac{\partial f}{\partial y}y' + \frac{ \partial f } {\partial y' } y''[/tex]Use the Euler-Lagrange equation to replace [tex]\partial f / \partial y[/tex] on the right and hence show that [tex]\frac{df}{dx} = \frac{d}{dx} ( y' \frac{\partial f}{\partial y'} ) [/tex]

Homework Equations



[tex]\frac{\partial f }{\partial y} = \frac{d}{dx} \frac{\partial f}{\partial y'}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



By substituting in for df/df, I get an extra term that I can't seem to make go away.

[tex]\frac{df}{dx} = \frac{d}{dx} y' \frac{ \partial f }{\partial y'} + \frac{\partial f}{\partial y'} y'' [/tex]

I can't seem to get rid of that extra term, it seems like it should be straight forward but...
 
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  • #2
Maybe it helps if you work backwards... what is
[tex]
\frac{df}{dx} = \frac{d}{dx} ( y' \frac{\partial f}{\partial y'} ) [/tex]
?
 

FAQ: Simplifying the Euler-Lagrange Equation for Explicitly Independent Functions

What is Euler-Lagrange Simplification?

Euler-Lagrange Simplification is a mathematical technique used in the field of calculus of variations. It is used to find the necessary conditions for a function to be a critical point of a given functional. This technique is named after the mathematicians Leonhard Euler and Joseph-Louis Lagrange.

What is the purpose of Euler-Lagrange Simplification?

The purpose of Euler-Lagrange Simplification is to find the solutions to problems that involve finding the extrema of a functional. This technique allows for the optimization of functions with multiple variables and constraints.

How does Euler-Lagrange Simplification work?

Euler-Lagrange Simplification involves taking the functional and converting it into an equation with the unknown function as the variable. This equation is then solved using the Euler-Lagrange equation, which involves taking partial derivatives and setting them equal to zero.

What are the applications of Euler-Lagrange Simplification?

Euler-Lagrange Simplification has various applications in physics, engineering, and economics. It can be used to solve problems related to optimal control, elasticity, fluid dynamics, and many other fields that involve finding the extrema of a functional.

Are there any limitations to Euler-Lagrange Simplification?

One limitation of Euler-Lagrange Simplification is that it can only be applied to functions that are smooth and continuously differentiable. It also does not guarantee finding the global minimum or maximum of a functional, but rather a local extrema. Additionally, it may not work for more complex problems with discontinuities or constraints.

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