How does the following simplify?

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In summary, the problem statement is that the derivative operator d/dr should be applied to some function of r, but it doesn't make sense at all. The attempt at a solution is to use the product rule to expand the outer d/dr.
  • #1
Rodger
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1. The problem statement

( F(r) [itex]\frac{d}{dr}[/itex] ( [itex]r^{2}[/itex] [itex]\frac{d}{dr}[/itex] ) ) g(r)


2. The attempt at a solution

Does it just melt down to:

( F(r) [itex]r^{2}[/itex] g(r) ) [itex]\frac{d^{2}}{dr^{2}}[/itex]
 
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  • #2
Rodger said:
1. The problem statement

( F(r) [itex]\frac{d}{dr}[/itex] ( [itex]r^{2}[/itex] [itex]\frac{d}{dr}[/itex] ) ) g(r)


2. The attempt at a solution

Does it just melt down to:

( F(r) [itex]r^{2}[/itex] g(r) ) [itex]\frac{d^{2}}{dr^{2}}[/itex]

It pretty much doesn't make sense at all. Except in the context of operators, which I don't think is applicable here, d/dr and d2/dr2 don't stand on their own.

The derivative operator d/dr should be applied to some function of r, such as d/dr(r2), which simplifies to 2r.
 
  • #3
Rodger said:
( F(r) [itex]\frac{d}{dr}[/itex] ( [itex]r^{2}[/itex] [itex]\frac{d}{dr}[/itex] ) ) g(r)
To add to what Mark44 said, presumably you mean [itex]F(r) \frac{d}{dr}[/itex] ( [itex]r^{2}[/itex] [itex]\frac{d}{dr}g(r)[/itex] ). You can expand the outer d/dr using the product rule.
 
  • #4
sure, I don't trust operators so forgive me but I have to ask if I can presume that the order of working through such an example might then follows something like this...

k(r) = [itex]r^{2}[/itex]

H(r) = [itex]\frac{d}{dr}[/itex] ( k(r) g(r) ) ------> using the product rule

=> [itex]\frac{d}{dr}[/itex] ( F(r) H(r) ) ------> using the product rule...


or this:

=> F(r) x { [itex]\frac{d}{dr}[/itex] [ [itex]r^{2}[/itex] x [itex]\frac{dg(r)}{dr}[/itex] ] }, using the product rule for the parts in the [] brackets
 
  • #5
Rodger said:
H(r) = [itex]\frac{d}{dr}[/itex] ( k(r) g(r) ) ------> using the product rule

=> [itex]\frac{d}{dr}[/itex] ( F(r) H(r) ) ------> using the product rule...
I see no way to move the F(r) inside the derivative like that. It certainly is not the product rule.
or this:

=> F(r) x { [itex]\frac{d}{dr}[/itex] [ [itex]r^{2}[/itex] x [itex]\frac{dg(r)}{dr}[/itex] ] }, using the product rule for the parts in the [] brackets
Yes.
 

FAQ: How does the following simplify?

How does the following simplify?

This question is often asked when a complex mathematical or scientific equation is presented. Simplification involves reducing the equation or expression to its simplest form, which can make it easier to understand and work with.

What are the steps to simplify an equation?

The steps to simplify an equation may vary depending on the specific equation, but generally involve combining like terms, using rules of exponents, and factoring. The goal is to reduce the equation to its simplest form by eliminating unnecessary or redundant terms.

Why is simplification important in science?

Simplification is important in science because it allows us to better understand and analyze complex systems and phenomena. By reducing an equation or concept to its simplest form, we can more easily identify patterns, relationships, and underlying principles.

Are there any drawbacks to simplification?

While simplification can be useful in many cases, it can also lead to oversimplification and potentially overlook important factors or variables. It's important to carefully consider the context and purpose of simplification in order to avoid any unintended consequences.

Can simplification be applied to all scientific fields?

Yes, simplification can be applied to all scientific fields. In fact, it is a fundamental aspect of the scientific method, which involves breaking down complex problems into simpler, more manageable parts in order to gain a better understanding and make accurate predictions.

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