The algebraic entropy of classical mechanics


Robert I McLachlan and Brett Ryland

Submitted to J Math Phys

Abstract:
We describe the `Lie algebra of classical mechanics', modelled on the Lie algebra generated by kinetic and potential energy of a simple mechanical system with respect to the canonical Poisson bracket. It is a polynomially graded Lie algebra, a class we introduce. We describe these Lie algebras, give an algorithm to calculate the dimensions $c_n$ of the homogeneous subspaces of the Lie algebra of classical mechanics, and determine the value of its entropy $\lim_{n\to\infty} c_n^{1/n}$. It is $1.82542377420108\dots$, a fundamental constant associated to classical mechanics.
Submitted by r.mclachlan@massey.ac.nz Tue, 15 Oct

Email of author:
R.McLachlan@massey.ac.nz
bnryland@yahoo.co.nz

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2002-011