Analyzing Infinitesimal Motion

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Chenkel
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    Infinitesimal Motion
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of infinitesimal motion as it relates to a rocket traveling between two points in different time intervals. Participants analyze the implications of dividing time by an infinite number of positions, concluding that such calculations lead to nonsensical results akin to dividing by zero. The conversation highlights the distinction between points and infinitesimals, emphasizing that while a line segment can contain infinite points, each point has no length. The consensus is that understanding the mathematics of infinitesimals is crucial for addressing these paradoxes, particularly in the context of Zeno's paradox.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus concepts, particularly limits and infinitesimals.
  • Familiarity with Zeno's paradox and its implications in motion.
  • Knowledge of mathematical definitions of points versus infinitesimals.
  • Basic understanding of continuity in physics and mathematics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the hyperreal number system to grasp infinitesimals in calculus.
  • Learn about Zeno's paradox and its historical significance in mathematics and physics.
  • Explore the concept of limits in calculus to better understand continuity and motion.
  • Investigate the differences between discrete and continuous mathematics.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics and mathematics, particularly those interested in calculus, motion analysis, and the philosophical implications of infinity and infinitesimals.

  • #61
Mark44 said:
Good.

This part is off-topic relative to the question you've asked in this thread.

What is off topic?
 
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  • #62
Chenkel said:
What is off topic?
The whole paragraph that @Mark44 quoted.

Not only that, at this point you have posted quite enough to tell us that you are going to try to reformulate your question and that you appreciate the feedback. The next post from you in this thread should be you actually doing what you say you're going to do, namely, reformulating your question. Anything else is off topic at this point. It's ok if that takes you some time. This forum is not going anywhere.
 
  • #63
Thread closed for moderation.

Edit: Thread will remain closed.
 
Last edited:

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