Interchangeability of Partial Differentiation in Physics

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of using partial differentiation interchangeably in the equation (dFx/dt)=(dF/dt)x, and the speaker suggests proving it through writing out the partial derivatives.
  • #1
mmmboh
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I've tried looking online, but I haven't found the answer. For instance, when can you say (dFx/dt)=(dF/dt)x, where subscript x indicates partial differentiation with respect to x.

I know that partial differentiation is pretty much always interchangeable, but what about in this case? I have a physics problem, a Lagrangian, and interchanging how I asked gives the right answer, but I want to make sure it's really legit.

Thanks.
 
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  • #2


I suppose that you can always write it out in partial differentiations, e.g.
[tex]\frac{dF(t, x_1, \ldots, x_n)}{dt} = \frac{\partial F}{\partial t} + \sum_{i = 1}^n \frac{\partial F}{\partial x_i} \frac{\partial x_i}{\partial t}[/tex]
and prove it that way.
 

1. What is the concept of interchangeability of partial differentiation in physics?

The concept of interchangeability of partial differentiation in physics refers to the ability to switch the order of differentiation of multiple variables in a function without affecting the final result. This is based on the fact that the order of differentiation does not matter for continuous and well-behaved functions.

2. Why is interchangeability of partial differentiation important in physics?

Interchangeability of partial differentiation is important in physics because it allows us to simplify complex equations and make them easier to solve. It also helps in understanding the relationship between different variables in a function.

3. What are some examples of the use of interchangeability of partial differentiation in physics?

Interchangeability of partial differentiation is commonly used in physics when dealing with equations involving multiple variables, such as the equations of motion in classical mechanics or the wave equation in electromagnetism. It is also used in thermodynamics to calculate changes in energy and entropy.

4. What are the limitations of interchangeability of partial differentiation in physics?

Interchangeability of partial differentiation is only valid for continuous and well-behaved functions. It is not applicable for discontinuous or non-differentiable functions. In addition, it may lead to errors if used inappropriately, such as when dealing with non-invertible functions.

5. How is interchangeability of partial differentiation related to the chain rule in calculus?

The chain rule in calculus is closely related to the concept of interchangeability of partial differentiation. In fact, the chain rule can be seen as a special case of interchangeability, where the variables being differentiated with respect to are related through a composition of functions. Both concepts involve the idea of changing the order of differentiation without affecting the final result.

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