Undergrad Why are cyclic coordinates named such?

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In Lagrangian mechanics, a cyclic coordinate is defined as a generalized coordinate that does not appear in the Lagrangian function. This absence indicates that the corresponding momentum is conserved, which is a key principle in mechanics. The term 'cyclic' reflects the periodic nature of the motion associated with these coordinates, leading to conservation laws. Understanding cyclic coordinates is crucial for simplifying problems in mechanics and identifying conserved quantities. The concept highlights the relationship between symmetries and conservation laws in physics.
anirocks11
In Lagrangian mechanics, if the Lagrangian is not a function of one of the generalised coordinate, then it is called a cyclic coordinate. Why is it called such? What is the significance of the term 'cyclic'?
 
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anirocks11 said:
In Lagrangian mechanics, if the Lagrangian is not a function of one of the generalised coordinate, then it is called a cyclic coordinate. Why is it called such? What is the significance of the term 'cyclic'?

Hi anirocks11

You can easily find it on the net. For instance take a look at this.
 
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Thread 'Reference frames, center of rotation, etc'

Topic about reference frames, center of rotation, postion of origin etc Comoving ref. frame is frame that is attached to moving object, does that mean, in that frame translation and rotation of object is zero, because origin and axes(x,y,z) are fixed to object? Is it same if you place origin of frame at object center of mass or at object tail? What type of comoving frame exist? What is lab frame? If we talk about center of rotation do we always need to specified from what frame we observe?
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