Abstract
We investigate the motion of a massive particle constrained to move along a path consisting of two line segments on a vertical plane under an arbitrary conservative force. By fixing the starting and end points of the track and varying the vertex horizontally, we find the least-time path. We define the angles of incidence and refraction similar to the refraction of a light ray. It is remarkable that the ratio of the sines of these angles is identical to the ratio of the average speeds on the two partial paths as long as the horizontal component of the conservative force vanishes.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.