How can I solve the Hamilton-Jacobi equation for this time-dependent potential?

  • Thread starter Thread starter dipole
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the Hamilton-Jacobi equation for a time-dependent potential defined as V(x,t) = -mAxe^{-\gamma t}. The correct Hamiltonian is identified as H = (p^2)/(2m) - mAxe^{-\gamma t}. The user encounters difficulties in separating variables to solve the equation, specifically noting that the standard method of assuming S(x,α,t) = W(x,α) - Et is not applicable in this case. The suggestion to use the method of characteristics is proposed as a potential solution strategy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Hamilton-Jacobi equation
  • Familiarity with time-dependent potentials in classical mechanics
  • Knowledge of the method of characteristics for solving partial differential equations
  • Basic concepts of Hamiltonian mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of characteristics in detail for solving PDEs
  • Explore time-dependent Hamiltonians and their implications in classical mechanics
  • Review separation of variables technique in the context of Hamilton-Jacobi equations
  • Investigate advanced solutions to Hamilton-Jacobi equations in non-constant potentials
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in theoretical physics, particularly those focusing on classical mechanics and dynamical systems, will benefit from this discussion.

dipole
Messages
553
Reaction score
149

Homework Statement



I'm given the time-dependent potential,

V(x,t) = -mAxe^{-\gamma t}

and asked to find the solution to the Hamilton-Jacobi equation,

H(x,\frac{\partial S}{\partial x}) + \frac{ \partial S}{\partial t} = 0


The Attempt at a Solution



Without any additional information, I'm assuming the correct Hamiltonian is given simply by,

H = \frac{p^2}{2m} -mAxe^{-\gamma t}

which gives me,

\frac{1}{2m}\bigg ( \frac{\partial S}{\partial x} \bigg )^2 - mAxe^{-\gamma t} + \frac{ \partial S}{\partial t} = 0

but I'm having troule separating the variables in order to solve this equation. Normally, when V = V(x) you can use the form S(x,\alpha,t) = W(x,\alpha) - Et, but here this won't work.

Have I somehow used the wrong Hamiltonian, or do I just need to guess correctly the right form of S?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I suggest using the method of characteristics to solve this PDE problem.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K