Lagrangian depend upon upon my choice of generalized coordinates?

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SUMMARY

The Lagrangian does depend on the choice of generalized coordinates, as demonstrated by the example of a particle mass m in one dimension with a potential V=V(x). When shifting coordinates from x to y=x+c, the potential transforms to V(y-c), indicating that V(x) and V(y-c) are distinct. Despite this difference in potential, the resulting equations of motion remain equivalent, highlighting the importance of selecting appropriate coordinates to simplify problem-solving in mechanics.

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does the lagrangian depend upon upon my choice of generalized coordinates
 
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The Lagrangian does depend on your generalised coordinates.

Consider a particle mass m in one dimension, in a potential V=V(x).
Then
[tex]L=T-V= \frac{1}{2}m\dot{x}^{2} - V(x)[/tex]

If instead of using x we used some shifted coordinate y=x+c, where c is some constant, then V=V(y-c)

[tex]L=T-V=\frac{1}{2}m\dot{y}^{2} - V(y-c)[/tex]

Now notice that in general V(x) and V(y-c) are different (for example if V(x)=x).

However the equations of motion you derive from them will be equivalent. (Often choosing a clever set of coordinates makes the equations of motion easier to solve).
 

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