The time derivative of kinetic energy

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the time derivative of kinetic energy, expressed as T(\vec{p})=\frac{\vec{p}^2}{2m}. The derivative is calculated as \frac{dT}{dt}=\vec{v}\cdot \vec{F}, where \vec{F} represents force and is defined by Newton's second law as \vec{F}=\frac{d\vec{p}}{dt}. The relationship between kinetic energy and force is established through the manipulation of the kinetic energy formula and the application of calculus.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy and its formula T=\frac{p^2}{2m}
  • Familiarity with Newton's second law, \vec{F}=\frac{d\vec{p}}{dt}
  • Basic calculus, particularly differentiation
  • Vector mathematics, specifically dot products
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of kinetic energy from basic principles of mechanics
  • Learn about the relationship between force and momentum in classical mechanics
  • Explore advanced calculus techniques for differentiating vector functions
  • Investigate applications of kinetic energy in various physical systems
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and professionals in mechanics who seek to deepen their understanding of kinetic energy and its relationship with force and momentum.

LagrangeEuler
Messages
711
Reaction score
22
Lets consider T(\vec{p})=\frac{\vec{p}^2}{2m}=\frac{\vec{p}\cdot \vec{p}}{2m}. Then \frac{dT}{dt}=\vec{v}\cdot \vec{F}.
And if we consider
T=\frac{p^2}{2m} than \frac{dT}{dt}=\frac{1}{2m}2p\frac{dp}{dt}
Could I see from that somehow that this is \vec{v}\cdot \vec{F}?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
LagrangeEuler said:
Lets consider T(\vec{p})=\frac{\vec{p}^2}{2m}=\frac{\vec{p}\cdot \vec{p}}{2m}. Then \frac{dT}{dt}=\vec{v}\cdot \vec{F}.
And if we consider
T=\frac{p^2}{2m} than \frac{dT}{dt}=\frac{1}{2m}2p\frac{dp}{dt}
Could I see from that somehow that this is \vec{v}\cdot \vec{F}?
Well, ##\vec {p} = m \vec {v}## and ##\vec F = \frac{d\vec p}{dt}## is Newton's second law.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: vanhees71, gmax137, Ibix and 1 other person

Similar threads

  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
677
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K