Galilean invariance and kinetic energy

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of Galilean invariance in relation to kinetic energy, specifically exploring the definition and proportionality of kinetic energy to the square of velocity. Participants seek clarification on the theoretical underpinnings and references to literature that discuss this topic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions that kinetic energy should be proportional to velocity squared as it is the only Galilean invariant definition of kinetic energy.
  • Another participant suggests that the book "Landau and Lifgarbagez Classical Mechanics" contains the argument related to Galilean invariance and kinetic energy.
  • A participant expresses uncertainty about the Lagrangian argument and why kinetic energy cannot be defined linearly with respect to speed, indicating a lack of familiarity with Lagrangian mechanics.
  • There is a request for help in identifying a specific book that presents the argument in a more accessible manner, as the participant recalls it being easier to understand.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the specific book being referenced, and there is uncertainty regarding the clarity of the Lagrangian argument related to kinetic energy.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the clarity of the Lagrangian mechanics approach and the specific definitions of kinetic energy that may depend on the context of Galilean invariance.

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I tried to look this up on the internet. I know there is a book about it but I forgot its title.

I know that you can prove that the kinetic energy should be proportional to velocity squared by saying that this is the only Galilean invariant definition of kinetic energy.

Can someone help me remember how this is defined? (Or maybe better, give the title of the book? I would like to read it!)
 
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Are you referring to Landau and Lifgarbagez Classical Mechanics? This is the only book I know of where that argument is given, within the first few pages even. But before you go to the trouble of finding the book, is this the argument you are talking about: https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4380393&postcount=9?
 
WannabeNewton said:
Are you referring to Landau and Lifgarbagez Classical Mechanics? This is the only book I know of where that argument is given, within the first few pages even. But before you go to the trouble of finding the book, is this the argument you are talking about: https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=4380393&postcount=9?

That will have to do if I cannot find anything else. But from what I remember the book had a single author and the argument was easier to follow. I translated it into something that a 15-year old could understand.

I don't quite follow the Lagrangian argument myself actually and why you can't choose it to depend linearly on the speed. (I never took the Lagrangian mechanics course because of studies abroad.)
 
Oh then I'm not sure which book it is then. The aforementioned book is the only one I know of myself where I've seen an argument resembling what you asked for. Sorry I couldn't be of more help and good luck!
 

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