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Using d’Alembert principle, one doesn't require any assumption like the one made in other case where particle has to follow the path of least action.

Qmechanic
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1 Answers1

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First and foremost, the generalized forces $Q_j$ do need to have (possibly velocity-dependent) potentials for the stationary action principle to work, while this is not necessary for d'Alembert's principle. See also this & this related Phys.SE posts.

Qmechanic
  • 201,751