Can someone help me get the correct answer?

Thread starter clapper66
Start date Feb 8, 2015

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a physics homework problem involving the application of Newton's second law and the Lagrangian method. Participants inquire about the specific quantities involved, such as Itotal, I1, I2, and l, and their representations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of clearly defining these variables and understanding their relationships to formulate the correct equations of motion.

PREREQUISITES

Understanding of Newton's second law of motion
Familiarity with Lagrangian mechanics
Knowledge of basic physics quantities (mass, force, acceleration)
Ability to manipulate equations and solve for unknowns

NEXT STEPS

Study the derivation of the Lagrangian for mechanical systems
Review examples of applying Newton's second law in multi-body problems
Explore the relationship between kinetic and potential energy in Lagrangian mechanics
Practice solving physics problems involving multiple masses and forces

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Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of classical mechanics and problem-solving techniques in physics.

Feb 8, 2015

clapper66

Homework Statement

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

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Feb 9, 2015

Goddar

Hi. What are the quantities you are using? (I_total, I₁, I₂ and l); what do they represent and how do you get these relations?
Do you know how to express the Lagrangian here?
If not, can you write Newton's 2nd law for each mass?