Asking about a general formula for deriving an absolute function

  • Thread starter Alkatran
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In summary, we see that the derivative of an absolute value function can be derived using a general formula and it relies on continuous functions. By using the FTC, we can see that the integral of an absolute value function can also be simplified. However, we must be careful when dealing with functions that do not have a derivative at a specific point, such as the absolute value function at x=0.
  • #1
Alkatran
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Is there some general formula for deriving an absolut-ed function? Is what I;m doing wrong (a lot of derivation relies on continuous functions, doesn't it?)

IE:
d/dx(abs(sin(x)))

Here's what I got:
abs(x) = x*sign(x)
d/dx(sign(x)) = 0 (x != 0)
therefore
[tex]
\frac{d}{dx}abs(f(x)) = \frac{d}{dx}f(x)*sign(f(x)) = f '(x) * sign(f(x)) + 0
[/tex]

Which, by FTC would mean that:
[tex]
\int cos(x)*sign(sin(x)) \dx = abs(sin(x))
[/tex]
'I checked this by drawing the graphs and it appears right...

Also... I saw that:
[tex]
abs(sin(x)) = sin(x \mod \pi)
[/tex]
[tex]
\int x \mod c \dx = (\int_{0}^{c} x \dx)*INT(\frac{x}{c}) + \int_{0}^{x \mod c} x \dx
[/tex]
example:
[tex]
\int x \mod 1 \dx = INT(\frac{x}{c}) * .5 + x \mod 1
[/tex]
continuing...
[tex]
\int abs(sin(x)) dx = \int sin(x \mod \pi) \dx
= (\int_{0}^{pi} sin(x) dx)*INT(x / \pi) - cos(x \mod \pi)
= 2*INT(\frac{x}{\pi}) - cos(x \mod \pi)
[/tex]
Far as I can tell it works...
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Consider f(x) = x. To the right of zero, it's derivative is 1, and to the left, it is -1. The derivative, you can easily show, does not exist at 0. Do this from first principles, where you know the derivative is a limit. To find this limit, calculate the right limit (as your variable, normally h, approaches zero from the right) and notice that the limit evaluates to 1. Notice that it is -1 when h approaches zero from the left. Therefore, since left limit is not equal to right limit, the limit doesn't exist, and so, by definition, the derivative doesn't exist (since the derivative is this very limit).
 
  • #3
AKG said:
Consider f(x) = x. To the right of zero, it's derivative is 1, and to the left, it is -1. The derivative, you can easily show, does not exist at 0. Do this from first principles, where you know the derivative is a limit. To find this limit, calculate the right limit (as your variable, normally h, approaches zero from the right) and notice that the limit evaluates to 1. Notice that it is -1 when h approaches zero from the left. Therefore, since left limit is not equal to right limit, the limit doesn't exist, and so, by definition, the derivative doesn't exist (since the derivative is this very limit).

Sorry, I completely forgot to add x != 0

d/dx(abs(x)) = sign(x), x != 0
 

1. What is the purpose of deriving absolutes in scientific research?

The purpose of deriving absolutes in scientific research is to establish a baseline or standard against which other data can be compared. This allows scientists to draw conclusions and make predictions based on objective measurements.

2. How is the process of deriving absolutes carried out in scientific experiments?

The process of deriving absolutes involves conducting controlled experiments to obtain precise measurements of a particular variable. These measurements are then used to establish a standard or absolute value, which can be used for comparison in future experiments.

3. What are some potential limitations of deriving absolutes in scientific research?

One potential limitation of deriving absolutes is the possibility of error in the measurements obtained during the experiment. Another limitation is that the derived absolute may only be applicable to a specific set of conditions and may not accurately represent the entire phenomenon being studied.

4. How can scientists ensure the accuracy and reliability of derived absolutes?

To ensure accuracy and reliability, scientists often repeat experiments multiple times and use statistical analysis to determine the margin of error. They may also compare their results with other studies to validate their findings.

5. Can derived absolutes change over time?

Yes, derived absolutes can change over time as scientific knowledge and technology advances. New experiments may lead to more precise measurements and therefore, a revised absolute value. Additionally, as new variables are discovered, the absolute value may need to be adjusted to account for these new factors.

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