Understanding the Relationship between dv/dt and vdv/dx in Calculus

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Brewer
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between the derivatives dv/dt and vdv/dx in calculus, specifically exploring the reasoning behind this relationship. Participants are seeking clarification on the mathematical principles involved, particularly in the context of differentiation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the relationship dv/dt = vdv/dx and seeks understanding of why this is the case.
  • Another participant references the chain rule of differentiation as a potential explanation for the relationship.
  • A later reply suggests that there may be another term involved, indicating uncertainty about the completeness of the initial relationship.
  • One participant confirms the relationship using the chain rule, stating that dv/dt = (dv/dx)(dx/dt), which aligns with their understanding.
  • Another participant acknowledges their earlier misunderstanding and expresses clarity after the explanation involving the product rule.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the relationship, as there are differing interpretations and additional terms suggested. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the completeness of the explanation.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of clarity on the assumptions underlying the relationship and the potential roles of different differentiation rules, such as the chain rule and product rule, which are not fully explored.

Brewer
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I have a question that asks me to write dv/dt as a function of x.

I know that dv/dt = vdv/dx

but I don't know why this is. Could anybody shed some light on this for me? Just so I understand why it is this!

Thanks in advance
 
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Did you hear about the chain rule of differentiation...?

Daniel.
 
dextercioby said:
Did you hear about the chain rule of differentiation...?

Daniel.

yeah that though occurred to me whilst sitting in the car just.

but surely there's another term involved in it isn't there?
 
No.

[tex]\frac{dv}{dt}=\frac{dv}{dx}\frac{dx}{dt}[/tex].

Daniel.
 
dextercioby said:
No.

[tex]\frac{dv}{dt}=\frac{dv}{dx}\frac{dx}{dt}[/tex].

Daniel.

Of course! What I had in mind was the product rule! Thank you for that - makes so much sense to me now!
 

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