Abstract
We consider geometric variational problems for a functional defined on a curve in a three-dimensional space. The functional is assumed to be written in a form invariant under the group of Euclidean motions. We present the Euler-Lagrange equations as equilibrium equations for the internal force and moment. Examples are discussed to illustrate our approach. This form of the equations particularly serves to promote the study of biofilaments and nanofilaments.
- Received 2 February 2009
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.79.066602
©2009 American Physical Society