On Mathisson's variational equation of relativistic dynamics

Abstract

The paper considers the solution of the general variational equation of relativistic dynamics using the methods of Mathisson with a generalization at one stage. The solution gives us two equations describing the translational motion and rotational motion. The rotational equation is also investigated by setting up a variational equation using the conservation of angular momentum, and this is found to be of the same form as that obtained from Mathisson's variational equation.