Lagrangian Equation with Generalized Force term

In summary, the Lagrangian Equation in basic level classical mechanics includes Qi as a Generalized force, which can be both conservative and non-conservative. The difference between these two equations lies in the potential function associated with the vector field. Qi also contains frictions, which are non-conservative forces that do not store energy in the field. The total work done on a system can be found by adding the conservative and non-conservative forces, and the generalized force can be calculated by subtracting the conservative forces from the total force.
  • #1
KT KIM
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In basic level classical mechanics I've known so far
The Lagrangian Equation is
Like this
lag2.png


But in the little deeper references, they covers Lagrangian Equation is
Like this
Lag1.png


Qi is Generalized force, and Qi also contains frictions that's what reference says
But I still can't grasp.

What is the difference between these two equation, and What Is "Generalized Force" ?
 
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  • #3
The generalized forces can be both conservative and non-conservative. The gravitational force of attraction, the buoyancy force, the spring force, the electric and magnetic forces (and electromagnetic time invariant forces) are conservative and they also have the potential function associated with the vector field [itex] \vec F [/itex] : [itex] - \nabla \Phi = \vec F [/itex]. The non-conservative are the forces that do not store the energy in the field. The examples of these forces are the friction force, the air resistance, the damping force, the viscous force, the drag force, the time-varying electromagnetic fields, etc. The total work done on a system will be [itex] W=W_{cons}+W_{non-cons} = KE_{f} - KE_{i} = -\delta PE [/itex]. The generalized force can be found as: [itex] f_{i}=f_{cons}+f_{non-cons} [/itex]. If you have already included the conservative forces in your Lagrangian expression, for example, you found the potentials of the given vector fields, your generalized forces will be the non-conservative forces.
 
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1. What is the Lagrangian Equation with Generalized Force term?

The Lagrangian Equation with Generalized Force term is a mathematical equation used in classical mechanics to describe the motion of a system of particles. It is derived from the Lagrangian function, which is the difference between the kinetic and potential energies of a system.

2. What is the significance of the Generalized Force term in the Lagrangian Equation?

The Generalized Force term in the Lagrangian Equation takes into account all the forces acting on a system, including non-conservative forces such as friction and external forces. This allows for a more accurate and comprehensive description of the motion of a system.

3. How is the Generalized Force term calculated in the Lagrangian Equation?

The Generalized Force term is calculated by taking the derivative of the Lagrangian function with respect to the generalized coordinates of the system. This takes into account the effect of the forces on the motion of the system and allows for a more efficient and elegant calculation of the equations of motion.

4. What are the advantages of using the Lagrangian Equation with Generalized Force term?

The Lagrangian Equation with Generalized Force term has several advantages over other methods of describing the motion of a system. It is based on a single, concise equation that takes into account all the forces acting on a system, making it more comprehensive and efficient. It also allows for the use of generalized coordinates, which can simplify the equations of motion for complex systems.

5. What are some applications of the Lagrangian Equation with Generalized Force term?

The Lagrangian Equation with Generalized Force term has many applications in physics and engineering, including in the study of mechanics, electromechanical systems, and quantum mechanics. It is also used in the development of control systems and in the analysis of the dynamics of complex systems such as satellites and planetary orbits.

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