Quantization of classical lagrangian mechanics

K. S. Cheng

The equivalent Lagrangians for a generalized mechanical system are defined and the effects of using different members of the class of equivalent Lagrangians in classical mechanics and quantum mechanics are discussed. The path integration method is applied to quantize the generalized mechanical system.

Charles F. Hayes, J. M. Jankowski

Mc Nucci

We present an old and regretfully forgotten method by Jacobi which allows one to find many Lagrangians of simple classical models and also of nonconservative systems. We underline that the knowledge of Lie symmetries generates Jacobi last multipliers and each of the latter yields a Lagrangian. Then it is shown that Noether's theorem can identify among those Lagrangians the physical Lagrangian(s) that will successfully lead to quantization. The preservation of the Noether symmetries as Lie symmetries of the corresponding Schrödinger equation is the key that takes classical mechanics into quantum mechanics. Some examples are presented.

Herbert C. Corben

Maria Clara Nucci

M C Nucci

We present an old and regretfully forgotten method by Jacobi which allows one to find many Lagrangians of simple classical models and also of nonconservative systems. We underline that the knowledge of Lie symmetries generates Jacobi last multipliers and each of the latter yields a Lagrangian. Then it is shown that Noether's theorem can identify among those Lagrangians the physical Lagrangian(s) that will successfully lead to quantization. The preservation of the Noether symmetries as Lie symmetries of the corresponding Schrödinger equation is the key that takes classical mechanics into quantum mechanics. Some examples are presented.