Classical mechanics: Inverse problem and symmetries (Q1085635): Difference between revisions

The inverse problem of classical mechanics, i.e. the variational formulation of a given Newton equation is presented ''in the broadest generality'' in the framework of the Cartan's exterior differential systems. The relation between the second degree symmetries (i.e. the symmetry bivector fields) of the Newton equation and the first integrals of motion is demonstrated.