2nd derivative of angular displacement wrt time

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the relationship between the second derivative of angular displacement with respect to time and the square of the first derivative of angular displacement. Participants explore whether the equation ##\frac{d^2\theta}{dt^2} = (\frac{d\theta}{dt})^2## holds true, examining it through various examples and reasoning.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the validity of the equation by providing a proof using the function ##\theta = \sin(t)##, showing that the second derivative does not equal the square of the first derivative.
  • Another participant presents a different example with ##\theta(t) = t##, demonstrating that the second derivative is zero while the square of the first derivative is one, indicating a discrepancy.
  • A later reply notes that while the dimensions of both sides of the proposed equation agree, they are not equivalent, suggesting a misunderstanding of the relationship.
  • Further, a participant raises concerns about the implications of the proposed equation, questioning whether a zero second derivative implies no rotation and whether the right-hand side being always positive suggests that the rotation rate can only increase.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the validity of the proposed equation. Multiple competing views remain, with some participants providing counterexamples and others questioning the implications of the equation.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on specific functions chosen for angular displacement and the unresolved nature of the implications discussed regarding rotation rates.

Prez Cannady
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If ##\theta## is angular displacement, does ##\frac{d^2\theta}{dt^2} = (\frac{d\theta}{dt})^2##? Proof?
 
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Parameterized, I think not. A contradiction:

$$ \theta = sin(t) $$
$$ \frac{d\theta}{dt} = cos(t) $$
$$ \frac{d^2\theta}{dt^2} = -sin(t) $$
$$ \left(\frac{d\theta}{dt}\right)^2 = (cos(t))^2 $$
 
How about this:
$$
\begin{align}
\theta(t) &= t \\
\frac{d\theta}{dt} &= 1 \\
\frac{d^2\theta}{dt^2} &= 0 \neq \left( \frac{d\theta}{dt} \right)^2
\end{align}
$$
 
Yeah. Dimensionally they agree because ##\theta## is dimensionless, but they're not equivalent. Thanks.
 
Try a couple of sanity checks of the proposed equation:
1) If the rotation rate is not changing, the second derivative is zero. Does that mean that it is not rotating at all?
2) Since the right hand side is always positive, does that mean that the rotation rate can only get more positive?
 
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