Weber-like interactions and energy conservation

Abstract

Velocity dependent forces varying as $k(\hat{r}/r)(1 - \mu \dot{r}^2 + \gamma r \ddot{r})$ (such as Weber force), here called Weber-like forces, are examined from the point of view of energy conservation and it is proved that they are conservative if and only if $\gamma=2\mu$. As a consequence, it is shown that gravitational theories employing Weber-like forces cannot be conservative and also yield both the precession of the perihelion of Mercury as well as the gravitational deflection of light.