Derivative of this piecewise function?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the derivative of a piecewise defined function, specifically the function x(t) = {-14t : 0≤|t|< 1, 2sgn(t) : 1≤|t|< 7, (-12/7)sgn(t) : 7≤|t|< 14, 0 : 14≤|t|}. It is established that the derivative of this piecewise function is not simply a normal function due to the presence of discontinuities at specific points. The derivative will exhibit even more discontinuities than the original function, necessitating the use of Dirac delta functions to account for these incontinuities. Graphing the function is recommended to visualize these characteristics.

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  • Understanding of piecewise functions
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  • Familiarity with Dirac delta functions
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  • Learn about the application of Dirac delta functions in derivatives
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Homework Statement


I have this piecewise defined function and am wondering if the derivative is supposed to be piecewise defined as well?
Or could I just write it out on a line like a "normal" function?

Homework Equations


x(t) = {-14t : 0[itex]\leq[/itex]|t|< 1, 2sgn(t) : 1[itex]\leq[/itex]|t|< 7, (-12/7)sgn(t) : 7[itex]\leq[/itex]|t|< 14, 0 : 14[itex]\leq[/itex]|t| }

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm thinking I can write the derivative as a normal function. Since the piecewise functions are defined with no time-jumps between them and the derivative will have Dirac delta functions defined at the function incontinuities. Therefor the derivative should be continuous on the interval:
0[itex]\leq[/itex]|t|[itex]\leq[/itex]14.
Is this correct?
 
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Graph the function.

That should tell you the answer.

There are no gaps in the function definition -- if you are referring to the fact that the domain of the function is (-∞, ∞). However, this function has discontinuities at several places. Its derivative has even more discontinuities than the function itself !
 
Oh right, I asked a little too quick before thinking it through enough.
Thanks!
 

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