Very basic question on derivative notation

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    Derivative Notation
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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the relationship between derivative notation and linearity in calculus. Specifically, it confirms that the expression B d/dt (x1 - x2) is indeed equal to B (dot{x}1 - dot{x}2), where dot{x} represents the derivative of x with respect to time. The properties of derivatives as linear operators are highlighted, demonstrating that the derivative of a scalar multiplied by a function equals the scalar multiplied by the derivative of the function, and the derivative of a sum equals the sum of the derivatives.

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  • Familiarity with linear operators in mathematical contexts.
  • Knowledge of notation for derivatives, including dot notation.
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating expressions involving derivatives.
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ledphones
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could B d/dt (x1 -x2) be equal to B (dot{x}1 - dot{x} 2)? Thank you!

dot{x} is supposed to be a "dot" over a x. Just a formatting problem
 
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The derivative is a linear operator, so the following properties hold:
  1. \displaystyle\frac{\text{d}}{\text{d}t}\!\left(\alpha x\right) = \alpha\dot{x}
  2. \displaystyle\frac{\text{d}}{\text{d}t}\!\left(x_1 + x_2\right) = \dot{x}_1 + \dot{x}_2
 
Thank you!
 

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