Lecture_01 variational calculus
Lecture_01 variational calculus¶
Variational calculus is similar to calculus. In calculus, you can find the minimum and maximum of a function, \(f(x)\) by setting \(\frac{df}{dx}=0\).
In variational calculus, we are seeking the the function, \(f(x)\), that minimizes a functional that may be a function of \(E=E(x,~f,~\frac{df}{dx})\).
How could we use this tool to solve an applied physics problem (dynamics, solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, etc.)? choose a specific example
What work and energy would you minimize for a dynamics problem?