Fractional Euler-Lagrange equations applied to oscillatory systems (Q2352942): Difference between revisions

This is an interesting, well-written paper on the application of fractional order calculus (FOC), as opposed to the usual integer order calculus (IOC), with two elementary oscillating systems: the simple pendulum and the damped linear oscillator (spring-mass system). The procedure is straight forward: the authors develop and solve Lagrange's equations for the oscillatory systems where the derivatives are of fractional order. What makes the paper of interest is that the value of the fractional order leads to solutions which can mimic a variety of oscillation responses some of which can be observed in physical systems -- such as under-damped and over-damped nonlinear systems. What is not clear is the mathematical and/or physical significance of the rather impressive analysis. Perhaps a next area of analysis is: given an unexplained physical phenomena (such as the effect of dark matter) is there a corresponding fractional calculus model?