Need guidance on where to start on the study of the variational principle

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around guidance for studying the variational principle, particularly for someone with a background in Calculus II. The focus is on identifying appropriate resources and foundational knowledge necessary for understanding the topic.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in understanding the mathematics related to the variational principle and seeks direction for study.
  • Another participant shares a link to a resource they find straightforward, suggesting it avoids overly complex notation.
  • There is a recommendation that foundational knowledge from Calculus III and Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs) may be necessary to comprehend the material presented in the linked resource.
  • A later post requests additional resources or supplements to aid in understanding.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for foundational knowledge before tackling the variational principle, but the discussion remains unresolved regarding specific resources or approaches beyond the shared link.

Nano-Passion
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I was experimenting with some physics and the mathematics started to get a bit tougher than what I'm used to. I had a professor who looked at what I'm doing, offered to guide me, and told me to do some research on the variational principle.

At the moment, I am in Calculus II. I did a couple searches, and the material I found is well beyond my knowledge at this moment. Can someone help direct me to a proper place to start on this study.
 
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This looks like a straightforward explanation (well, straightforward in the sense that it
doesn't obscure things with "advanced" notation for no particular reason).
http://www.math.umn.edu/~olver/am_/cvz.pdf

If you don't understand this, first learn what you need from Calc 3 and/or ODEs.
 
AlephZero said:
This looks like a straightforward explanation (well, straightforward in the sense that it
doesn't obscure things with "advanced" notation for no particular reason).
http://www.math.umn.edu/~olver/am_/cvz.pdf

If you don't understand this, first learn what you need from Calc 3 and/or ODEs.

Yes there is a bunch of calculus 3 there that I see. Thanks for the link.
 
Anyone else? I need a supplement.
 

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