Lagrangian linear masses (CM) (1 Viewer)

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mamou6262

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
A combination of masses along the z-axis is separated by a distance 'a' with middle mass at origin. The potential is
$$V = \frac{1}{2}kx^2$$.
What is the force of constraint using Lagrange multiplier?

2. Relevant equations
$$L = T - V + \lambda f$$

3. The attempt at a solution
I found L and calculated the lagrange eqn of motions but still I am getting
$$m \ddot{z} - \lambda = 0$$

z is not moving, so $$\ddot{z} = 0$$.
Based on this $$\lambda = 0$$
Is the question wrong?

Last edited:

kreil

Gold Member
You should get 3 equations of motion, one for each coordinate (x,y,z)

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