Derivative as an Instantaneous rate of change

In summary, the conversation is about finding the derivative of the volume function and using the volume equations for a cylinder and cone to solve the problem. The final equation is V(d) = 1/3 * d^3 * Pi, where d represents the depth of the fluid.
  • #1
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I am having trouble with this problem. Any help how to start it would be appreciated?

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  • #2
Mathematically, what is asked is [tex]V'(d)[/tex] (prime denotes differentiation), where V(d) is the volume as a function of the depth d. So find V(d) first.
 
  • #3
Yes, mathematically, the result should be a constant, but there's no serious physical sense here.
 
  • #4
Thats the thing i am having trouble with, starting the equation? I know I need the Volume for a cylinder equation but how do I use it to figure it out?
 
  • #5
The volume of a cone is 1/3 b*h, where b is the area of the base (pi r^2) and h is the height.
 
  • #6
So would the new equation be 1/3 4 - d * 4 - d (pi r^2)?
 
  • #7
The equation is V = 1/3 * d^3 * Pi . Since d can change, it is a variable, which makes the equation a function, so you can write V(d) = 1/3 * d^3 * Pi , because the volume of the fluid V depends of it's depth d.
 
  • #8
Okay, Thanks a lot i didn't get the d^3.
 
  • #9
The d^3 is implied by radius = height.
 

FAQ: Derivative as an Instantaneous rate of change

What is a derivative?

A derivative is a mathematical concept that represents the instantaneous rate of change of a function at a specific point. It is calculated by finding the slope of the tangent line to the function at that point.

How is a derivative used in real life?

A derivative is used in many fields of science and engineering, such as physics, economics, and biology. It can be used to model and predict the behavior of systems and to optimize processes.

What is the difference between average rate of change and instantaneous rate of change?

The average rate of change is the overall change in a function over a given interval, while the instantaneous rate of change is the change at a specific point on the function. The instantaneous rate of change is more precise and can capture changes that occur over very small intervals.

How is the derivative calculated?

The derivative is calculated using the limit definition, which involves taking the limit of the slope of the secant line as the two points on the function get closer and closer together. This can also be represented algebraically using the power rule, product rule, and chain rule.

What is the relationship between a derivative and a slope?

The derivative at a point on a function is equal to the slope of the tangent line at that point. This means that the derivative can be used to find the slope of a curve at any point, which is useful for understanding the behavior of the function.

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