Transforming Lagrangian without changing the equations of motion.

In summary, there is a wider class of canonical transformations that can be applied to a Lagrangian in order to obtain equations of motion with the same solutions. These transformations involve adding a total time derivative and multiplying the Lagrangian by a constant. The modified Hamilton's principle also defines canonical transformations by adding a total time derivative inside the action integral. It is unclear if there are other transformations on the Lagrangian that do not involve a change of variables.
  • #1
alemsalem
175
5
I know that it works with adding a total time derivative and multiplying the Lagrangian by a constant.
are these the only things that can be done to a Lagrangian such that the equations of motion have the same solutions q(t).

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
There is a wider class of so called canonical transformations.
 
  • #3
Dickfore said:
There is a wider class of so called canonical transformations.

These are the ones I'm having a problem with. the modified Hamilton's principle gives this definition for a canonical transformation:
pq - H = PQ - K + (total time derivative).. and that's because you can add a total time derivative inside the integral for the action.
I also want to know if there is more transformations on the Lagrangian without a change of variables.

Thanks :)
 

Related to Transforming Lagrangian without changing the equations of motion.

1. What is a Lagrangian?

A Lagrangian is a mathematical function that describes the dynamics of a physical system. It is used in the field of mechanics to derive equations of motion for a system.

2. How can the Lagrangian be transformed without changing the equations of motion?

The Lagrangian can be transformed by using a mathematical technique called a coordinate transformation. This involves changing the variables used to describe the system, but the underlying equations of motion remain the same.

3. Why would you want to transform the Lagrangian?

Transforming the Lagrangian can make it easier to solve for the equations of motion or provide new insights into the system. It can also be used to simplify the equations or make them more physically meaningful.

4. What are some common types of coordinate transformations used in transforming the Lagrangian?

Some common types of coordinate transformations include changing from Cartesian to polar coordinates, or from one system of generalized coordinates to another. These transformations can be linear or non-linear.

5. Are there any limitations to transforming the Lagrangian without changing the equations of motion?

While transforming the Lagrangian can be a useful tool, it is important to note that not all transformations can be applied without altering the equations of motion. Also, some transformations may introduce additional constraints or variables to the system, which can affect the overall dynamics.

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