Function dependent on time alone that will result with meters?

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The discussion centers on the validity of functions dependent solely on time in physics, with a focus on displacement. One participant argues that displacement cannot be a function of time alone, asserting that it must include velocity, expressed as x=f(V,t)=Vt. However, others counter that displacement can indeed be a function of time, exemplified by equations like x=10m/s * t, which yield position based on time. The conversation highlights a misunderstanding of the mathematical concept of functions in relation to physical applications. Ultimately, the debate emphasizes the need for clarity in distinguishing between mathematical definitions and their physical interpretations.
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There cannot be function dependent on time alone that will result with meters. No x=f(t). It is x=f(V,t)=Vt.

Don't you delete this message because it is meaningfull...
 
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Suggest you look up the definition of function. Displacement can (and often is) a function of time alone, otherwise one would not be able to get velocity as the rate of change of displacement with respect to time.
 
The function x= 10m/s t where t is in seconds, is, in fact, a function of t only. Yes, the "10 m/s" is a velocity but since it is a constant, x is not a "function" of velocity.

In any case, the concept of "function" is a mathematical one, not a physics concept. When you are putting units of measurement in, you are talking about an application of mathematics, not the mathematics itself.
 
sexwish said:
There cannot be function dependent on time alone that will result with meters. No x=f(t). It is x=f(V,t)=Vt.

Don't you delete this message because it is meaningfull...


This is untrue man.

For example : t * e_x + t² * e_y (the e_x and e_y are just the basis-vektors denoting the components in the x and y direction)

This is a function dependent on time but it yields a position. It just expresses what the position is after a certain amount of time.

I think you are looking at the concept of "function" in the wrong way


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marlon
 
Sexwish, I read your former post and it was deleted with good reason.
Your remark will NOT revolutionize physics. It's pretty arrogant to think it would.

Next time you encounter something that doesn't seem right. Ask your professor (or post to this form) that you don't understand it and ask for an explanation instead of claiming physics is wrong.
Learn some humility, unless you want appear as a crackpot.
 
So I know that electrons are fundamental, there's no 'material' that makes them up, it's like talking about a colour itself rather than a car or a flower. Now protons and neutrons and quarks and whatever other stuff is there fundamentally, I want someone to kind of teach me these, I have a lot of questions that books might not give the answer in the way I understand. Thanks

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