Why F is the Way it is for Classical Mechanics Problem

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In summary, the conversation revolved around finding the optimal slope for a flexible fence attached to the side of a house to maximize the enclosed area for a dog. The equation F = y + λ√(1+y'^2) was used to represent the problem, with the goal of finding the maximum value of the integral A[y] = ∫(-a)^(a) y(x) dx while keeping L = ∫(-a)^(a) √(1+y'^2) dx constant. The question was raised as to why the equation for F was structured in this way, and whether any other function could be used to maximize the area.
  • #1
stunner5000pt
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of the classical kind

All i need here is an explanation as why F is the way it is
A person wished to fence off a maximum area for hi8s dog by attachin a flexible fence of length L to the side of his house whose width is 2a. What should the slope of the fence be?
Assume L > 2a
well then the action
[tex] A[y] = \int_{-a}^{a} y(x) dx [/tex] is a maximum
subject to constant L where [tex] L = \int_{-a}^{a} \sqrt{1+y'^2} dx [/tex]
If L[y,y'} = constant then [itex] \delta L = 0 [/itex]
and A[y,y'] = constant at its maximum
then
[tex] \delta A + \lambda \delta L = 0 [/tex] where
[tex] \lambda = \frac{[A]}{[L]} [/tex]
we also want that [tex] \delta \int_{-a}^{a} F(y,y',x) dx = 0 [/tex]
where [tex] F = y + \lambda \sqrt{1+y'^2} [/tex]
thats the problem, Why is F the way it is ? Maybe the attached diagram helps...
 

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  • #2
can anyone help out?

is it because f takes on the shape of half a unit circle?

Or will any function do?
 
  • #3
maximizing the Area provided the "y" term,
using all the fence material provided the sqrt term.
Whether you put the lambda multplier with the sqrt term
or with the y term was your choice, back in step 4 ...
 

1. Why is F= ma in classical mechanics?

F= ma is known as Newton's second law of motion, which states that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass. This relationship was derived by Isaac Newton through his experiments and observations on the motion of objects.

2. What is the significance of the letter F in classical mechanics?

The letter F in classical mechanics stands for force, which is a fundamental concept in physics. It represents the interaction between two objects that causes a change in their motion.

3. How is F related to other fundamental principles in classical mechanics?

F= ma is closely related to other fundamental principles in classical mechanics, such as Newton's first law of motion (inertia), which states that an object at rest will remain at rest unless acted upon by an external force, and Newton's third law of motion (action and reaction), which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. These principles work together to explain the behavior of objects in motion.

4. Can F be negative in classical mechanics?

Yes, F can be negative in classical mechanics. A negative force indicates a force acting in the opposite direction of motion, causing the object to decelerate or change direction. It is important to consider both the magnitude and direction of force in order to accurately describe the motion of an object.

5. How is F applied in real-world situations?

F= ma is a fundamental equation in classical mechanics that can be applied to a wide range of real-world situations. It is used to calculate the motion of objects in various scenarios, such as free fall, projectile motion, and circular motion. This equation is also the basis for many engineering and technological applications, such as designing bridges, buildings, and vehicles.

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