Variational Procedure for Higher-Derivative Mechanical Models in a Fractional Integral Framework

We present both the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian procedures for treating higher-order equations of motion for mechanical models by adopting the Riemann-Liouville Fractional integral to describe their action. We point out and discuss its efficacy and difficulties. We also present the physical and geometric interpretations for the approach we pursue and present the details of a higher-order harmonic oscillator.