Deriving the Hamilton equations of motion for a nonconservative system using a variational principle

Abstract

The classical derivation of the canonical transformation theory [H. Goldstein, Classical Mechanics, 2nd ed. (Addison-Wesley, Reading, 1981)] is based on Hamilton's principle which is only valid for conservative systems. This paper avoids this principle by using an approach that is basically reversed compared to the classical derivation. The Lagrange equations of motion are formulated in the undefined and general variable set {Q,P}, and the general Hamilton equations of motion are derived from the Lagrange equations by using a variational principle. The undefined general variables {Q,P} are defined through a transformation to a special (defined) variable set {q,p}. The transformation equations connecting the two sets are derived by using the invariants property of the value of the Lagrangian. This approach results in a more general interpretation of the generator function. © 1998 American Institute of Physics.