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YouTube

At the Core of Fundamental Physics - The Principle of Least Action

World Science Festival via YouTube

Overview

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Explore the fundamental principle underlying all laws of physics in this 36-minute video from the World Science Festival. Delve into the Principle of Least Action as Brian Greene explains its simplest application and demonstrates how it leads to Isaac Newton's basic laws of motion. Follow along with Greene's accessible explanations of pivotal equations and engaging stories about nature and numbers, designed to provide a fresh perspective on the universe. Discover how this core concept shapes our understanding of physics, even if your mathematical background is limited. Learn about the Euler-Lagrangian approach, simple examples, and the process of minimizing over trajectories. Gain insights into integration techniques and the derivation of the Euler-Lagrange equation, all presented in a brief and engaging format.

Syllabus

Introduction
Euler Lagrangian
Simple Example
Least Action Approach
Minimize Over Trajectories
The Leap
Integration by Parts
Integration by Terms
Euler Lagrange
Euler Lagrange Equation

Taught by

World Science Festival

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