Constant of Motion

In mechanics, a constant of motion is a quantity that is conserved throughout the motion, imposing in effect a constraint on the motion. However, it is a mathematical constraint, the natural consequence of the equations of motion, rather than a physical constraint (which would require extra constraint forces). Common examples include energy, linear momentum, angular momentum and the Laplace–Runge–Lenz vector (for inverse-square force laws).

Read more about Constant Of Motion:  Applications, Methods For Identifying Constants of Motion, In Quantum Mechanics, Relevance For Quantum Chaos, Integral of Motion

Famous quotes containing the words constant and/or motion:

    Liberalism, austere in political trifles, has learned ever more artfully to unite a constant protest against the government with a constant submission to it.
    Alexander Herzen (1812–1870)

    Thence, flow! conceit and motion to rehearse
    Pastoral terrors of youth still in the man,
    Torsions of sleep, in emblematic verse
    Rattling like dice unless the verse shall scan
    All chance away....
    Allen Tate (1899–1979)