Question about variational derivative

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Notation 3) is used in variational calculus, where the functional derivative is taken instead of the partial derivative. However, in this case, the notation is incorrect since it is missing the dv term. Therefore, notation 2) is the appropriate choice for this derivation. In summary, the correct notation for equation 1 is 2), H=\frac{\partial W_{mag}}{\partial B}, as it indicates the partial derivative of W_{mag} with respect to B while keeping other variables constant. Notation 3) is incorrect in this case as it is missing the dv term.
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Hassan2
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I have a question as to what notation should I use for the following derivation ( I have no background on calculus of variation ):

In linear media , the stored energy in a given volume is given by

[itex]W_{mag}=\int_{V}\frac{1}{2}H.Bdv[/itex]

Now intuitively

1) [itex]H=\frac{d W_{mag}}{dv d B}[/itex]But this is not the way they write it, instead one of the following notations are used:2) [itex]H=\frac{\partial W_{mag}}{\partial B}[/itex]
3) [itex]H=\frac{\delta W_{mag}}{\delta B}[/itex] ( dv is missing)

What is the right notation for equation 1 ?Thanks.

Edit: In 1) it is assumed that B inside the infinitesimal volume (dv) changes to B+dB while outside dv it remained constant.
 
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The correct notation for equation 1 is 2), H=\frac{\partial W_{mag}}{\partial B}. This notation indicates that the partial derivative of W_{mag} with respect to B is taken, while keeping other variables (in this case, v) constant.
 

1. What is a variational derivative?

A variational derivative is a mathematical concept used in the field of calculus of variations. It is a type of derivative that is used to find the minimum or maximum value of a functional.

2. How is a variational derivative calculated?

A variational derivative is calculated using the Euler-Lagrange equation, which is derived from the fundamental lemma of calculus of variations. This equation involves taking the derivative of the functional with respect to the unknown function and setting it equal to zero.

3. What is the purpose of a variational derivative?

The purpose of a variational derivative is to find the function that minimizes or maximizes a given functional. This is useful in many scientific and engineering applications, such as in finding the path that a particle will take to minimize its energy.

4. Can a variational derivative be used in any type of optimization problem?

No, a variational derivative is specifically used in problems involving functionals and is not applicable to all types of optimization problems. It is most commonly used in the calculus of variations and related fields.

5. Are there any practical applications of variational derivatives?

Yes, variational derivatives have many practical applications in fields such as physics, engineering, and economics. They are used to solve problems involving optimization, control systems, and dynamics, among others.

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