2nd Order Derivative Applications

[mikec426]

Homework Statement

This is a discussion question from an online course I'm taking.

1. Find an example from engineering which involves a second order derivative. This 2nd order derivative should have some name. For example, the 2nd derivative of displacement with respect to time is called acceleration. 2. For your example, clearly show the original quantity, the first derivative, and the second derivative. 3. Show all the steps involved in arriving from the original quantity to the 2nd derivative. 4. Do not choose displacement, velocity, and acceleration as your example.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

This is day three of me googling every related term that I can think of and I've just now come across this forum. Can someone point me in the right direction? I've found a few articles online that seem promising and they're all "for purchase."

Thanks,
--Mike

 

[Dick]

Well, the notion of "curvature" (as in, say, bending of a beam) involves second derivatives. Does that help? You should find plenty of free material on that.

 

[mikec426]

I looked up some of that. I haven't been able to make a clear step from original equation to 1st and then second derivative.

 

[mikec426]

Finally found something that made a decent amount of sense. My assignment's only one day late...