Abstract
This chapter is devoted to the debate at the École polytechnique on the principle of virtual velocities as presented in Lagrange’s Méchanique analitique of 1788, assuming a reductionist approach. In the first part, after a brief mention of Gaspard de Prony’s contribution, three interesting demonstrations by Fourier of the principle of virtual velocities are presented. Fourier considers the case of unilateral constraints also. In the second part the demonstration of Ampère is presented. Note the use of purely geometric virtual velocities, following the lead of Lazare Carnot. In the third part the probably less interesting demonstration of Pierre Simon Laplace is reported.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution.
Buying options
Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout
Purchases are for personal use only
Learn about institutional subscriptionsNotes
- 1.
p. 204.
- 2.
p. 196.
- 3.
pp. 21–22.
- 4.
pp. 22–23.
- 5.
p. 25.
- 6.
p. 26.
- 7.
pp. 44, 195.
- 8.
p. 42.
- 9.
p. 42.
- 10.
p. 43.
- 11.
Here perhaps Ampère confuses Carnot with Fourier.
- 12.
pp. 247–248.
- 13.
p. 248.
- 14.
p. 248.
- 15.
p. 250.
- 16.
p. 253.
- 17.
p. 261.
- 18.
Tome I, p. 9.
- 19.
Tome I, p. 37.
- 20.
p. 20.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
Copyright information
© 2012 Springer-Verlag Italia
About this chapter
Cite this chapter
Capecchi, D. (2012). The debate at the École polytechnique. In: History of Virtual Work Laws. Science Networks. Historical Studies, vol 42. Springer, Milano. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-88-470-2056-6_13
Download citation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-88-470-2056-6_13
Publisher Name: Springer, Milano
Print ISBN: 978-88-470-2055-9
Online ISBN: 978-88-470-2056-6
eBook Packages: EngineeringEngineering (R0)