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 dfdx=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, dfdx).
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?