Does the Principle of Least Action Have a Physical Meaning?

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SUMMARY

The Principle of Least Action (PLA) has sparked a debate among physicists regarding its physical meaning, with some asserting it is fundamental while others view it as merely a mathematical construct. Recent literature, including Coopersmith's "The Lazy Universe" and Albert Rojo's work, supports the notion of PLA as a foundational principle. The discussion highlights the lack of consensus on what constitutes "physical meaning," with examples such as refraction illustrating the complexity of interpreting PLA in various contexts. Ultimately, the dialogue emphasizes the need for a clearer understanding of PLA's implications in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Principle of Least Action (PLA)
  • Familiarity with variational calculus
  • Knowledge of classical mechanics and Newton's laws
  • Awareness of contemporary physics literature on PLA
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the Principle of Least Action in modern physics
  • Explore variational calculus techniques and their applications
  • Read Coopersmith’s "The Lazy Universe" for insights on PLA
  • Investigate the arguments against the physical meaning of PLA in scholarly articles
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of physics, and researchers interested in the foundational principles of mechanics and the philosophical implications of mathematical constructs in physical theories.

  • #91
Mister T said:
Being fundamental and being physically meaningful are two different things. Do you have a reference for a claim that the PLA is not physically meaningful?

Back in post #21 there is a link to a paper that points out that "the principle of least action" is an ambiguous phrase. The paper distinguishes two versions of the principle of least action. The two versions have different physical meanings. So, yes, there is a source that says the PLA "is not phyically meaningful" in the sense that it does not have a unique physical interpretation.
 

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