Acceleration as a function of displacement

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the derivation of acceleration as a function of displacement, specifically the equation dv/dt = v(dv/dx) = d(0.5v^2)/dx. The participant understands the transition from the first to the second part but seeks clarification on how to derive the third part. The conclusion reached is that this derivation involves reversing the chain rule, confirming that the integration of v dv on the right-hand side leads to the expression for kinetic energy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus, specifically differentiation and integration
  • Familiarity with the chain rule in calculus
  • Basic knowledge of kinematics and motion equations
  • Concept of velocity as a function of displacement
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the chain rule in calculus for deeper insights
  • Learn about the relationship between velocity and acceleration in kinematics
  • Explore integration techniques, particularly for functions of motion
  • Investigate the derivation of kinetic energy from basic principles
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of motion and acceleration.

Woolyabyss
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In one my classes my lecturer showed us the following derivation of acceleration as a function of displacement

dv/dt = v(dv/dx) = d(.5v^2)/dx

I understand how to get from the first to the second part. But I'm not sure how he got from the second part to the third. Its almost like he integrated v dv on the right hand side?

Any help would be appreciated.
 
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[itex]\frac{dv}{dt}=v\frac{dv}{dx}=\frac{1}{2}2v\frac{dv}{dx}=\frac{d}{dx}(\frac{1}{2} v^2)[/itex]
 
Oh so you're really just reversing the chain rule
 

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