Partial derivative properties rule

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the properties of partial derivatives, specifically whether the expression involving a partial derivative with respect to x multiplied by Ax can be equated to the derivative of Ax squared. Participants explore the implications of notation and the role of constants in the expressions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the interpretation of the notation, particularly the meaning of the square brackets around A and whether A is a function of x or a constant.
  • There is a proposal to clarify whether the expression (∂A[x])Ax is equivalent to ∂(Ax^2), with some suggesting that they represent different mathematical operations.
  • One participant provides a reformulation of the question using LaTeX, asking if the derivative of Ax multiplied by Ax equals the derivative of Ax squared, and notes that if A is a constant, the two expressions yield different results.
  • Another participant emphasizes the need for clearer notation and additional context to understand the question fully.
  • Concerns are raised about the appropriateness of treating the expression as a partial derivative when only one variable, x, is present.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the interpretation of the notation and whether the expressions can be equated. There is no consensus on the correct interpretation or the validity of the proposed equivalence.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include ambiguity in notation, the dependence on whether A is treated as a function of x or a constant, and unresolved mathematical steps regarding the differentiation process.

shabnam
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Hi I need help regarding following

can I write following partial derivative wrt x multiplied by Ax

(∂A[x])Ax =∂(Ax^2)
 
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shabnam said:
Hi I need help regarding following

can I write following partial derivative wrt x multiplied by Ax

(∂A[x])Ax =∂(Ax^2)

Usually they would by interpreted differently. The left side is Ax multiplied by the derivative of Ax, while the right side is the derivative of the square.
 
What do you mean by the square brackets on the LHS? I.e., does it mean A is a function of x or is it an unnecessary bracket?


Are you asking does the following hold true
[tex] \left( \frac{\partial}{\partial x} \left( Ax \right) \right) Ax = \frac{\partial}{\partial x} \left( (Ax)^{2} \right)[/tex]


(i.e., is the derivative of the square of the function##Ax## wrt x (right hand side) equal the derivative of the function ##Ax## multiplied by ##Ax##)

?

Or is A a constant? If so then they aren't the same thing,
 
Last edited:
shabnam said:
Hi I need help regarding following

can I write following partial derivative wrt x multiplied by Ax

(∂A[x])Ax =∂(Ax^2)
It's impossible to know what you mean by that notation. You have to provide more information when you ask a question.

Looks like more than one person in this thread might find the LaTeX FAQ useful. https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?p=3977517#post3977517
 
Last edited:
Do you mean
[tex]\frac{\partial Ax}{\partial x} Ax= \frac{\partial Ax^2}{\partial x}[/tex]?

Is A a constant? If so it is clear that those are not the same:
[tex]\frac{\partial Ax}{\partial x}Ax= A^2x \frac{\partial x}{\partial x}= A^2x[/tex]
while
[tex]\frac{\partial Ax^2}{\partial x}= A\frac{\partial x^2}{\partial x}= 2Ax[/tex]

(Why did you want to treat this as a partial derivative when there is only the one variable, x?)
 

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