How Does Lagrange's Equation Describe the Motion of Two Connected Blocks?

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SUMMARY

Lagrange's Equation effectively describes the motion of two connected blocks, where one block is on a smooth horizontal surface and the other hangs over a frictionless pulley. The primary equation utilized is the Lagrangian, defined as L = T - U, where T is the kinetic energy and U is the potential energy. The constraint equation for the system is x + y = L, where x and y represent the distances moved by the blocks, and L is the constant length of the string. Understanding the application of partial derivatives in this context is crucial for deriving the equations of motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lagrangian mechanics
  • Familiarity with kinetic and potential energy concepts
  • Knowledge of partial derivatives and their application in physics
  • Basic grasp of constraint equations in mechanical systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of Lagrange's equations in classical mechanics
  • Explore examples of constraint equations in multi-body systems
  • Learn about the application of Lagrangian mechanics in solving dynamic problems
  • Investigate the role of tension in systems involving pulleys and strings
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focusing on classical mechanics, as well as engineers working with dynamic systems involving pulleys and constraints.

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Homework Statement


two blocks each of mass m are connected by an extensionless uniform string of length l. one block is placed on a smooth horizontal surface and the other block hangs over the side the string passes over a frictionless pulley. describe the motion of the system when the mass of the string is negligible

2. Relevant information, equations...
The only necessary equation you need to know is Lagrange's of Motion which states:

(i've tried putting in the partial signs but its not working out so i will have to type it out!)
partial L/partial q -(d/dt) partial L/partial q' + lambda (partial f/partial q)
where f is the equation of constraint, L is the langrange equation found from L=T-U, q is the variable of which you are taking a derivative, and lambda is the force of constraint

Attempt at a solution:
I know how to do work through the partial derivatives and plug in everything to get the equations of motion and all that, my only problem is finding an equation of constraint. From there, I have no problems. Any suggestions?
 
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Well, the string will be bent like this:

x
-----------
|
| y
|

Since the string is of Length L, I would say that for all values of x,y you have [itex]x+y=L[/itex]...would you not agree?
 

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