What are the general calculus concepts used in classical physics?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concepts of differential equations and integrals. These are important mathematical tools used to describe functions with multiple variables and their derivatives. They are also essential in understanding physical laws, such as Maxwell's Equations in classical electromagnetism. These equations can be expressed as both differential and integral equations.
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DeltaForce
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What are the key calculus concepts used in classical physics mechanics?
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  • #2
Differential equations and integrals.
Ask a generic question and you'll get a generic answer.
 
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  • #3
The concept of a function of one or many variables (up to 4 independent variables , three for the spatial coordinates x,y,z (or ρ,θ,φ in spherical coordinates) and one for the time coordinate),

The concept of derivative of the function (partial derivatives in the case the function has many variables or simple derivative in the case our function has only one independent variable)

The concept of integral of a function (integral over a line or a curve, over a surface, or over a volume)

Almost all physical laws come in the form of differential equations (equations that contain functions and partial or simple derivatives of functions) or integral equations (equations that contain functions and integrals of the functions). The most typical example are Maxwell's Equations in classical electromagnetism which can be expressed both as partial differential equations and as integral equations.
 
  • #4
Anachronist said:
Differential equations and integrals.
Ask a generic question and you'll get a generic answer.
Thanks, that's what I was looking for.
 

1. What is the concept of derivatives in classical physics?

In classical physics, derivatives are used to measure the rate of change of a physical quantity. This is particularly useful in understanding the motion of objects, as it allows us to calculate the velocity and acceleration of an object at any given time.

2. How is integration used in classical physics?

Integration is used in classical physics to calculate the total change in a physical quantity over a given time period. This is especially important when dealing with quantities that are continuously changing, such as velocity and acceleration.

3. Can you explain the concept of limits in classical physics?

Limits are used in classical physics to determine the behavior of a physical quantity as it approaches a certain value. This is particularly useful in understanding the behavior of objects at extreme speeds or in situations where the laws of classical physics may break down.

4. How do calculus concepts help us understand motion in classical physics?

Calculus concepts, such as derivatives and integrals, allow us to mathematically describe and analyze the motion of objects in classical physics. By using these concepts, we can calculate the position, velocity, and acceleration of an object at any given time, and make predictions about its future motion.

5. Are there any other important calculus concepts used in classical physics?

Yes, there are other important calculus concepts used in classical physics, such as optimization and differential equations. Optimization is used to find the maximum or minimum value of a physical quantity, while differential equations are used to model the relationships between different physical quantities and their rates of change.

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