How to Formulate Lagrangian Equations for a Horizontally Oscillating Pendulum?

[Fabio010]

Homework Statement

Write the lagrangian equations for:

A simple pendulum whose suspension point oscillates horizontally in its plan according to the law x = a.cos(ωt)My problem is trying to know which are the generalized coordinates.

i considered :x (θ) = a.cos(ωt) + l.sinθ

y (θ) = l.cos θIs that correct?

 

[TSny]

That looks good. But to be specific, what is (or are) your generalized coordinate(s)?

 

[Fabio010]

θ isn't it?

 

[TSny]

Right. I was just making sure. Thanks.

 

[Fabio010]

Right. I was just making sure. Thanks.

ok thanks for the help.