Finding dE/dx: Using the Chain Rule

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of the chain rule in finding the derivative dE/dx, specifically in the context of question 16b from a problem set. The chain rule is defined as dF/dt = dx/dt * dF/dx + dy/dt * dF/dy, where F is a function of x and y, both dependent on t. A key point of contention arises regarding the derivative of t' with respect to x, as it is established that t' is not a function of x, leading to the conclusion that ∂t'/∂x = 0.

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mrmojorizing
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Hi fi you look at quesiotn 16b in the following link they try to find dE/dx.

they use the chain rule. the chain rule says dF/dt=dx/dt*dF/dx+dy/dt*dF/dy if F=f(x,y) and x=f(t) and y=f(t).

But in 16b they're trying to find dE/dx and as part of the use of the chain rule they try to find dt'/dx (in the first equation under where it says 'a galilean transform...') however t' is not a function of x, so i don't understand why they're taking the derivative of t' wrt to x.


http://stuff.mit.edu/afs/athena/course/8/8.20/www/sols/sol1.pdf
 
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That's very simple,
\frac{\partial t'}{\partial x}=0.
 

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