Constraint (mechanics)

In this system the box slides down a slope, the constraint is that the box must remain on the slope (it cannot go through it or start flying).

Inclassical mechanics,aconstrainton asystemis aparameterthat the system must obey. For example, a box sliding down a slope must remain on the slope. There are two different types of constraints:holonomicand non-holonomic.

Types of constraint

• First class constraintsandsecond class constraints
• Primary constraints,secondary constraints,tertiary constraints,quaternary constraints
• Holonomic constraints,also called integrable constraints, (depending on time and the coordinates but not on the momenta) andNonholonomic system
• Pfaffian constraints
• Scleronomic constraints(not depending on time) andrheonomic constraints(depending on time)
• Ideal constraints: those for which the work done by the constraint forces under a virtual displacement vanishes.