ahmadphy
In standard Lagrangian mechanics we usually determine the particle’s path by minimizing the action between fixed endpoints — i.e.using boundary conditions (initial and final positions). In contrast Newtonian mechanics evolves motion from initial conditions (position and velocity).
My question is:
Is there a formulation of Lagrangian mechanics that allows solving for the path based on initial conditions where the effect of initial momentum is treated as an inertial response that interacts with external forces?
More specifically:
Suppose a particle with some initial velocity enters a region with a force field.
Can the Lagrangian framework be modified or reinterpreted to account for how the particle’s initial momentum influences its deflection — almost like the momentum contributes to the dynamics similarly to how a force would?
Is there a way to view the Euler-Lagrange term as a kind of inertial “resistance” or contribution that plays a role in computing a local resultant with the field force?
I’m trying to understand whether there exists a variational or dynamical formalism that blends the initial-condition approach of Newtonian mechanics with the Lagrangian framework, perhaps using momentum as a proxy for how a particle “resists” external forces at each point in time.
Any insights, references, or similar formalisms would be much appreciated.
My question is:
Is there a formulation of Lagrangian mechanics that allows solving for the path based on initial conditions where the effect of initial momentum is treated as an inertial response that interacts with external forces?
More specifically:
Suppose a particle with some initial velocity enters a region with a force field.
Can the Lagrangian framework be modified or reinterpreted to account for how the particle’s initial momentum influences its deflection — almost like the momentum contributes to the dynamics similarly to how a force would?
Is there a way to view the Euler-Lagrange term as a kind of inertial “resistance” or contribution that plays a role in computing a local resultant with the field force?
I’m trying to understand whether there exists a variational or dynamical formalism that blends the initial-condition approach of Newtonian mechanics with the Lagrangian framework, perhaps using momentum as a proxy for how a particle “resists” external forces at each point in time.
Any insights, references, or similar formalisms would be much appreciated.