Taking the partial time derivative of a functional

In summary, the conversation discusses a functional of f and its relationship to the equation given by the partial derivatives of vector r and x. The conversation also touches on coordinate transformation and the need for the chain rule.
  • #1
Arman777
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Let us suppose we have a functional of f such that ##f=f((\vec{r}(t),t)## where ##\vec{r}(t) = a(t)\vec{x}(t)##.

I am trying to derive an equation such that

$$\left.\frac{\partial}{\partial t}\right|_r = \left.\frac{\partial }{\partial t}\right|_x + \left.\frac{\partial \vec{x}}{\partial t}\right|_r \cdot \nabla_x $$

where ##\nabla_r = \frac{1}{a}\nabla_x##

It is actually about coordinate transformation.
 
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  • #2
Your notation doesn't make any sense. Firstly, you wrote an equation of differential operators, not derivatives. Secondly, you evaluate an operator depending on one variable at a location of another variable. What does that mean? If it is only a coordinate transformation, then you need the chain rule, that's all.
 

1. What is a functional?

A functional is a mathematical function that takes in another function as its input and produces a real-valued output. In other words, it is a mapping from a set of functions to the real numbers.

2. What does it mean to take the partial time derivative of a functional?

Taking the partial time derivative of a functional means finding the rate of change of the functional with respect to time. This involves calculating the derivative of the functional with respect to time while holding all other variables constant.

3. Why is taking the partial time derivative of a functional important?

Taking the partial time derivative of a functional is important in many areas of science and engineering, including physics, economics, and engineering. It allows us to understand how a functional changes over time and can help us make predictions and optimize systems.

4. What is the notation for taking the partial time derivative of a functional?

The notation for taking the partial time derivative of a functional is similar to the notation for taking the partial derivative of a multivariable function. It is written as ∂F/∂t, where F is the functional and t is the variable of time.

5. Can the partial time derivative of a functional be negative?

Yes, the partial time derivative of a functional can be negative. This indicates that the functional is decreasing with respect to time. Similarly, a positive partial time derivative indicates that the functional is increasing with respect to time.

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