High School What is the Inverse of a Differential Operator?

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The discussion centers on the definition and meaning of the expression ∂/∂zμ, where zμ represents the partial derivative of a scalar function φ. It clarifies that this expression is not an inverse of a differential operator but rather a differential operator itself. Without a specific function for ∂/∂zμ to act upon, it lacks a calculable value. The conversation emphasizes that the operator requires context to have meaning, similar to asking for the value of a square root without a number. Overall, the key takeaway is that ∂/∂zμ is an operator that operates on functions, not an inverse.
laguna
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Hello everybody,
If I define z_\mu = \frac{\partial{\phi}}{\partial{x^{\mu}}}, \, \mu = 0,1,...,n, (for some scalar function phi of x=(x_0,...,x_n)) how is then \frac{\partial{}}{\partial{z_{\mu}}} defined or rather what is it equal to? How would you call this expression? the inverse of a differential?

Thank you.
 
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It is not an inverse of anything. It is a partial derivative.
 
mathman said:
It is not an inverse of anything. It is a partial derivative.
What is it equal to or how can i calculate it please?
 
laguna said:
How would you call this expression?

Thank you.

The expression is a differential operator. Unless you state a specific function of ##z_\mu## for it to operate upon, there is nothing to calculate.
 
laguna said:
Hello everybody,
how is then \frac{\partial{}}{\partial{z_{\mu}}} defined or rather what is it equal to?

laguna said:
What is it equal to or how can i calculate it please?
As already explained, it's an operator. By itself, without a function for it to operate on, it has no meaning. Your question is similar to "What is ##\sqrt{}## equal to?
 

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