What is the Lagrangian for Electromagnetic Fields?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the derivation of the Lagrangian for electromagnetic fields, specifically the equations L = -mc√(u^{\beta} u_\beta) - (q/c)A^{\alpha}u_\alpha and L(v,r,t) = -mc²(1 - v²/c²) - φ + (q/c)vA. The Lagrangian incorporates mass (m), speed of light (c), velocity (u), scalar potential (φ), and vector potential (A). Participants suggest applying the Euler-Lagrange equations to derive insights from these Lagrangians, emphasizing the necessity of educated guesses in Lagrangian formulation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lagrangian mechanics
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic theory
  • Knowledge of four-vectors and tensor notation
  • Proficiency in applying the Euler-Lagrange equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Lagrangian for electromagnetic fields
  • Learn about the Euler-Lagrange equations in classical mechanics
  • Explore the properties of the electromagnetic field tensor (F^{\alpha\beta})
  • Investigate the role of four-potential in electrodynamics
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of theoretical physics, and anyone interested in the mathematical formulation of electromagnetic theory will benefit from this discussion.

lavster
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Homework Statement



In my notes i have the following two equations written with no explanation where thehy came from... can someone help please!?
[tex] L=(u, x )= -mc\sqrt(u^{\beta} u_\beta)-\frac{q}{c}A^{\alpha}u_\alpha,<br /> <br /> L(v,r, t) = -mc^2(1-\frac{v^2}{c^2})-\phi +\frac{q}{c}vA[/tex]
L is lagrangian, m mass c speed of light u is speed, A is potential four vector made up of scalar (phi) and vector potential A

Homework Equations


[tex] L = \frac{1}{2}m u_{\alpha} u^{\alpha}-\frac{1}{c}A^{\alpha}j_{\alpha}-\frac{1}{16\pi}F^{\alpha\beta}F_{\alpha\beta}[/tex]
F is electromagnetic field tensor



The Attempt at a Solution



I have no idea :(
 
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Have you tried putting them through the Euler-Lagrange equations and seeing what you
get? It's the case that you usually have to guess at lagrangian, so there is no explanation from where they came from.
 

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