How can we determine lagrangian density?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the Lagrangian density in the context of field theory, particularly for equations like the Klein-Gordon and Dirac equations. Participants explore the concept of Lagrangian density as an extension of the traditional Lagrangian used for particles.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between the Lagrangian and Lagrangian density, with some suggesting that the Lagrangian density can be derived from the equations of motion for specific fields. Questions arise about how to construct the Lagrangian density for different types of fields and whether the concept applies to particles.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with various interpretations being explored. Some participants offer insights into the construction of Lagrangian densities for specific equations, while others express uncertainty about their understanding and the applicability of the concept to particles.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted ambiguity regarding the treatment of particles versus fields in the context of Lagrangian density, with some participants questioning the assumptions made about volume and density in relation to particles.

feynman60
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we know the lagrangian l=ke-pe right
in case of fields is called "lagrangian density"
let particle with mass "m" and position "x"
it kientic energy= 1/2(mv^2)
so lagrangian =1/2(mv^2)-v(x) , v(x)=potential energy
in case the field lagrangian density
how can i determine the lagragian density?
for klein gordon eq
dirac eq and any field
please anyone help
 
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feynman60 said:
we know the lagrangian l=ke-pe right
in case of fields is called "lagrangian density"
let particle with mass "m" and position "x"
it kientic energy= 1/2(mv^2)
so lagrangian =1/2(mv^2)-v(x) , v(x)=potential energy
in case the field lagrangian density
how can i determine the lagragian density?
for klein gordon eq
dirac eq and any field
please anyone help

note: I am not sure about my answer.
I think that if you have the Klein Gordon eq then you can find the lagrangian density by bulding lagrangian which the El eq for this lagrangian is exactly the Klein Gordon eq.
In the same way you can do for dirac eq
 
Last edited:
The Lagrangian density is the Lagrangian per unit volume.

As for spin-0 and spin-1/2 systems you need to first determine the object that satisfies the required transformation laws (e.g. spinor, wavefunction etc.) and then try and find suitable scalars that you can build out of these quantities.

This Wikipedia article presents some Lagrangians for the electromagnetic field, the electron field and the interaction between the two.
 
It’s also my question。
It seems only for fields or continuous media we can talk about lagrangian density. for a particle it somewhat hard to do this.

but still, we can treat a particle as something with a considerable volume, and its lagrangian density is nothing but L/v,with L=lagrangian,v is it volume. and so lagrangian density in the "particle" keep unchanged.

it was only my opinion
 

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