What is the 3rd Derivative of Position?

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The discussion centers on the third derivative of position, which is linked to the concepts of momentum, force, and acceleration. The third derivative, expressed as mass times the derivative of acceleration (m * da/dt), is informally referred to as "yank." This term is not officially recognized but is used humorously to describe the physical quantity that results from the rate of change of force. The conversation highlights the relationship between yank and the sensations experienced during uniform acceleration, such as those felt on a rollercoaster. Overall, the discussion seeks to clarify the terminology and significance of this derivative in physics.
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Although my notation is likely incorrect,

Momentum =
m\frac{{dx}}{{dt}} = m \cdot v

Force =
m\frac{{d^2 x}}{{dt^2 }} = m\frac{{dv}}{{dt}} = m \cdot a

Then,
m\frac{{d^3 x}}{{dt^3 }} = m\frac{{d^2 v}}{{dt^2 }} = m\frac{{da}}{{dt}}

But what would/do you call the m\frac{{da}}{{dt}} ?
 
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Don't know the answer in this context, but the derivative of acceleration is called jerk.
 
Well, my question is what is the name of mass*(da/dt); exactly what physical quantity does it represent (is it a useful physical quantity)?
From that, i think, i can give it a name---but if it already has one,

*What would/do we call the product represented by mass*(da/dt) ?
 
It is just the first time derivative of Force \frac{dF}{dt} (which is also the second time derivative of momentum), which is what the link robphy supplied in his post refers to.

It should be pointed out that using the word 'Yank' to represent this quantity is by no means official, it is more of a tongue in cheek proposition.

Claude.
 
Ahh--that's right :smile:!

Yank =
m\frac{{da}}{{dt}}
 
I can only say that its the quantity of "Yank" that makes you sick in a rollercoaster, because uniform acceleration doesn't disturb our senses very much...
 
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