Understanding Newton's Notation for Derivatives of Velocity and Frequency

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SUMMARY

This discussion clarifies the use of Newton's notation for derivatives, specifically the dot notation indicating differentiation with respect to time. The dot above a variable, such as x or lambda, signifies the derivative of that variable over time, as exemplified by the equation \(\dot{f} = \frac{d}{dt} f\). The speed of light (c) is a constant and does not involve derivatives in this context, while frequency is defined as the inverse of the period (1/t). The participant seeks confirmation on their understanding of these concepts.

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  • Understanding of Newton's notation for derivatives
  • Basic knowledge of calculus, specifically differentiation
  • Familiarity with the concepts of velocity, frequency, and period
  • Knowledge of the relationship between speed, wavelength (lambda), and frequency
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  • Study the principles of calculus, focusing on differentiation techniques
  • Learn about the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and the speed of light
  • Explore advanced topics in physics related to wave mechanics and their mathematical representations
  • Review examples of Newton's notation in various physical contexts
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Students of physics, educators teaching calculus and mechanics, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of derivatives and their applications in wave phenomena.

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Homework Statement



If velocity = displacement (time)
or
.
x = dx/dt

were you put a dot above the x using Newtons notation were you indicate a derivative with reference to time with a dot above the symbol

so I was like
speed of light = lambda (frequency)
or

lambda with a dot above it = d(lambda)d(frequency)

is this correct because this all the speed of light is? Sense frequency is simply 1/t?

c = lambda frequency
c = lambda/period
lambda (with a dot above it) = d(labmda)d(frequency)

I just never got Newtons notation with the dot thing am I doing this correctly?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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The dot is there for the derivative with respect to time only.

So
[tex]\dot{f} = \frac{d}{d t} f[/tex]
 
GreenPrint said:

Homework Statement



If velocity = displacement (time)
velocity is a quotient. The way you have it above, it looks like a product.
GreenPrint said:
or
.
x = dx/dt

were you put a dot above the x using Newtons notation were you indicate a derivative with reference to time with a dot above the symbol

so I was like
speed of light = lambda (frequency)
There's no deriviative involved here. The speed of light, c, is a constant.
GreenPrint said:
or

lambda with a dot above it = d(lambda)d(frequency)

is this correct because this all the speed of light is? Sense frequency is simply 1/t?

c = lambda frequency
c = lambda/period
lambda (with a dot above it) = d(labmda)d(frequency)

I just never got Newtons notation with the dot thing am I doing this correctly?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 

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