Chain rule for denominator in second order derivatives

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the chain rule in transforming second-order derivatives, specifically from ##\frac{d^2x}{dy^2}## to ##\frac{d^2x}{dz^2}##. It explores the mathematical formulation and corrections related to the use of the product rule in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the chain rule as ##dx/dz = dx/dy*dy/dz## and applies it to derive the expression for ##d^2x/d^2z##.
  • Another participant corrects the second term in the derived expression, stating it should be ##\frac{d^2x}{dydz}## instead of ##\frac{d^2x}{dxdz}##.
  • A later reply expresses gratitude for the correction, indicating a collaborative effort in refining the mathematical expressions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no explicit consensus on the final form of the second-order derivative transformation, as one participant corrects another's expression, but the discussion remains open to further clarification.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes a correction of a mathematical term, highlighting the importance of precise notation in derivative transformations. However, the overall transformation process and its implications are not fully resolved.

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TL;DR
What is the chain rule for switching the denominator of a second order derivative?
Given ## \frac{d^2x}{dy^2} ##, what is the chain rule for transforming to ##\frac{d^2 x}{dz^2} ##?

(This is not a homework question)
 
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##dx/dz = dx/dy*dy/dz## (chain rule)
So
##d^2x/d^2z = dx/dy*d^2y/d^2z + d^2x/dydz*dy/dz## (product rule) (Corrected as @PeroK pointed out)
 
Last edited:
FactChecker said:
##dx/dz = dx/dy*dy/dz## (chain rule)
So
##d^2x/d^2z = dx/dy*d^2y/d^2z + d^2x/dxdz*dy/dz## (product rule)

You've got a typo there. The second term should be ##\frac{d^2x}{dydz}##.
 
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Likes   Reactions: FactChecker
Great. Thanks so much!
 

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