Demystifying the Equation: Understanding the Meaning of Variables in dp/dt=F

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The equation dp/dt=F represents the derivative of momentum (p) with respect to time (t), indicating the rate of change of momentum. The 'd' in this context signifies an infinitesimal change, distinguishing it from 'delta,' which typically represents a finite change. Understanding this distinction clarifies the relationship between momentum and force, as force is the rate of change of momentum over time. The discussion highlights that while 'd' and 'delta' are related, they serve different purposes in calculus. This clarification enhances comprehension of the equation's implications in physics.
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I was watching a video and this guy comes up with a formula which I should know and it is not very strange to me, but there is this 'd' variable, which I believe we don't use in my country... perhaps we give it another name or so and I'm getting quite confused reading american/english materials anyways :
\frac{dp}{dt}=F

Could you kindly do a legend of this equation? I mean what the variables stand for.
Thanks for the support this is a great forum
 
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"d" isn't a variable in this case. dp/dt is the derivative of momentum with respect to time, i.e. the rate of change of momentum with respect to time, from calculus.
 
so isn't that equivalent to delta?
I got it if that is the case, it makes much more sense now :)
 
delta and "d" are very similar depending on how they are used...
often delta is a larger displacement than a tiny infinitesimal displacement "d".

see here alongside the first diagram:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Derivative

"change in y"/ " change in x" is delta y/delta x and the derivative is defined as the limit as delta approaches zero...
 
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