Format:
xi, 255 Seiten
,
Diagramme
,
25 cm
ISBN:
0521869021
,
9780521869027
Content:
"The Principle of Least Action originates in the idea that, if Nature has a purpose, it should follow a minimum or critical path. This simple principle (and its variants and generalizations) applies to optics, mechanics, electromagnetism, relativity and quantum mechanics, and provides an essential guide to understanding the beauty of physics. This unique text provides an accessible introduction to the action principle across these various fields of physics and examines its history and fundamental role in science"--
Note:
Includes bibliographical references (pages 241-253) and index
,
Prehistory of variational principles -- An excursio to Newton's Principia -- The optical-mechanical analogy, Part I: D'Alembert, Lagrange, and the statics-dynamics analogy -- The optical mechanical analogy, Part II: the Hamilton-Jacobi equation -- Relativity and least action -- The road to quantum mechanics
Language:
English
Keywords:
Prinzip der kleinsten Wirkung
;
Geschichte
;
Theoretische Mechanik
;
Variationsrechnung
Author information:
Bloch, Anthony M. 1955-
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