The principle of least action is a natural principle, according to which natural processes tend to evolve towards the most energy efficiency. Fundamental physical and chemical processes are governed by the principle of least action, seen in material formation, heat transfer and electrical currents, taking the path of least resistance (Cooperfield, 2017). The principle can also be seen in the evolution of species, the development of animal behaviors, plant growth patterns, and even human interaction. Left undisturbed, these processes gravitate towards the simplest, most efficient versions. In the 21st century, when interest in the environment, and, therefore, efficient production, distribution, and consumption of energy, is increasing, identifying methods of optimizing these processes is particularly relevant. Applying the principle of least action to existing systems, including energy generation and distribution, can bring significant improvements in their efficiency and transparency.
Electrical systems are susceptible to power losses, causing increased and excessive production, which is, in turn, associated with negative environmental outcomes. Optimizing existing systems to minimize these losses is, therefore, beneficial for the environment. It is possible to achieve this optimization through modeling and analyzing existing electric power systems, then implementing automated control mechanisms that would align them with the principle of least action (Lezhniuk, Komar, Teptya, & Rubanenko, 2020). Furthermore, the topology of existing power grids can be similarly adjusted to facilitate efficient distribution in accordance with the principle of least action (Lezhniuk, et al., 2020). While the particular method discussed by Lezhniuk, et al. (2020) is theoretical, their research shows a significant potential for improvement if it is implemented. Thus, it demonstrates that applying the principle of least action to current processes to optimize them can achieve significant improvements.
Reference
Coopersmith, J. (2017). The lazy universe: An introduction to the principle of least action. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.
Lezhniuk, P., Komar, V, Teptya, V, & Rubanenko, O. (2020). Principle of the least action in models and algorithms optimization of the conditions of the electric power system. Przegląd Elektrotechniczny, 1(8), 90-96. Web.