Hamiltonian and Lagrange density

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between the Lagrangian density and the Hamiltonian in the context of classical mechanics and field theory. Participants explore definitions and mathematical expressions related to these concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks clarification on the relationship between the Lagrangian density and the Hamiltonian, requesting references for further reading.
  • Another participant provides a mathematical expression for the Hamiltonian in terms of the Lagrangian density, stating that the Hamiltonian is given by the integral of the Hamiltonian density.
  • A follow-up question arises regarding the distinction between the Lagrangian and the Lagrangian density, as well as the nature of the Hamiltonian density.
  • Further clarification is offered that the terms "Hamiltonian" and "Lagrangian" often refer to their respective densities in context, with integrals over these densities yielding the Hamiltonian and Lagrangian, respectively.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to agree on the mathematical relationships presented, but there is some uncertainty regarding the terminology and the distinction between Lagrangian and Lagrangian density.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the potential confusion surrounding the terminology of Lagrangian and Lagrangian density, nor does it clarify the implications of these definitions in different contexts.

kaksmet
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Hello everyone!
I'm trying to find the relation between the lagrangian density and the hamiltonian, does anyone know how they are related? I also need a reference where I can find the relation.

Thanks!
 
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Classical Mechanics by Goldstein covers it in the later chapters, as does the book by Landau. But...
[tex]\mathcal{H} = \pi \dot{\phi} - \mathcal{L}[/tex],
where
[tex]\pi = \frac{\partial\mathcal{L}} { \partial ( \partial_t \phi ) }[/tex]
The Hamiltonian is then
[tex]\int\!d^3x\, \mathcal{H}[/tex]
 
lbrits said:
Classical Mechanics by Goldstein covers it in the later chapters, as does the book by Landau. But...
[tex]\mathcal{H} = \pi \dot{\phi} - \mathcal{L}[/tex],
where
[tex]\pi = \frac{\partial\mathcal{L}} { \partial ( \partial_t \phi ) }[/tex]
The Hamiltonian is then
[tex]\int\!d^3x\, \mathcal{H}[/tex]

Thanks a lot! Just one small thing more
If the Hamiltonian is [tex]\int\!d^3x\, \mathcal{H}[/tex], then what is [tex]\mathcal{H}[/tex]? And is [tex]\mathcal{L}[/tex] the lagranian or the lagranian density?
 
Last edited:
A density is something that you integrate over (like mass density to get mass, charge density to get charge). So the scripted values here are the Hamiltonian and Lagrangian densities, although people often just call them the Hamiltonian and Lagrangian. Usually you can figure out from context.

The integral over [tex]\mathcal{H}[/tex] is the Hamiltonian, and the integral over [tex]\mathcal{L}[/tex] is called the Lagrangian.
 
thanks again
 

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