0
$\begingroup$

The general derivation of Hamilton’s equations involve the change in the Hamiltonian and consequently the change in the Lagrangian that is a function of $q$ and $\dot q$, $L(q,\dot q)$. This is shown in this simple video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXu6zIItnLM

When deriving Hamilton’s equations for $\dot q$ and $\dot p$, the Lagrangian is only a function of $q$ and $\dot q$ but not time. Therefore the Lagrangian used to derive Hamilton’s equations is time-independent as it appears. Does that means that Hamilton’s equations for $\dot q$ and $\dot p$ are only right for systems for which the Lagrangian is time-independent (and therefore the Hamiltonian - or energy is conserved)?

$\endgroup$
3
  • $\begingroup$ The premise of this post (v2) is wrong: A general Lagrangian could have explicit time dependence. $\endgroup$
    – Qmechanic
    Commented Jan 14, 2021 at 4:48
  • $\begingroup$ And the derivation will give the exact same result? $\endgroup$
    – qubitz
    Commented Jan 14, 2021 at 5:39
  • $\begingroup$ Possible duplicates: physics.stackexchange.com/q/105912/2451 and links therein. $\endgroup$
    – Qmechanic
    Commented Jan 14, 2021 at 7:41

0

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.