# When do I need to use virtual work in writing the equations of motion?

1. Jul 11, 2013

### jhosamelly

I'm studying for our comprehensive exam . I just need to clarify something. So the equation of motion for lagrangian dynamics is $\frac{d}{dt}\frac{\partial L}{\partial\dot{q}_{i}}$ = $\frac{\partial L}{\partial {q}_{i}}$

However, in my notes there are example which uses the principle of virtual work wherein $\frac{d}{dt}\frac{\partial L}{\partial\dot{q}_{i}}$ - $\frac{\partial L}{\partial {q}_{i}}$ = $F_{q}$

Then we look for $F_{q}$ using virtual work.

However isn't $\frac{d}{dt}\frac{\partial L}{\partial\dot{q}_{i}}$ - $\frac{\partial L}{\partial {q}_{i}}$ = 0 ????

2. Jul 11, 2013

### Joey21

I think I can help you, but I don't want to answer without knowing what F sub q stands for just in case I make things worse. Can you specify what it represents please?

3. Jul 11, 2013

### jhosamelly

q is the generalized coordinate.

For example if I have r (radial distance) as generalized coordinate I'll have

$\frac{d}{dt}\frac{\partial L}{\partial\dot{r}}$ - $\frac{\partial L}{\partial {r}}$ = $F_{r}$

4. Jul 11, 2013

### WannabeNewton

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