What does this subscript signify?

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In summary: The second expression is the left side of one of the Fresnel equations; discussing the interaction of an electromagnetic field and the interface of two different mediums. I think the subscript means that the amplitude of the electric field is perpendicular to the interface. Not sure if more could be implied by this particular subscript.
  • #1
shanepitts
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I am currently taken an undergrad Optics physics course, and I am often coming across functions/derivative that have subscripts. I know what those specific symbols mean but I don't know what their relationship is suppose to be. i.e.

{(δΨ/δt)x}=ω

or

(Eor/E0i)
 
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  • #2
You will get better answers of you can tell us more about exactly where you found these expressions and how they're being used. I and many other people here could make some good guesses, but these subscripts are often used with meanings that are only clear in context... So we need that context to give you more than guesses.
 
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  • #3
Nugatory said:
You will get better answers of you can tell us more about exactly where you found these expressions and how they're being used. I and many other people here could make some good guesses, but these subscripts are often used with meanings that are only clear in context... So we need that context to give you more than guesses.
The first expression after looking it up states that the this is the partial derivative of a wave function with respect to t, holding the x constant. Hence, I presume that he subscript here means that variable is held constant.
 
  • #4
shanepitts said:
The first expression after looking it up states that the this is the partial derivative of a wave function with respect to t, holding the x constant. Hence, I presume that he subscript here means that variable is held constant.

Seems likely...
 
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  • #5
After looking it up, and reading your reply, I think I got my answer. The textbook states that, the first expression is the partial derivative of a wave function with respect to t, holding the x constant. Hence, I presume that the subscript here means that the variable is held constant.

The second expression is the left side of one of the Fresnel equations; discussing the interaction of an electromagnetic field and the interface of two different mediums. I think the subscript means that the amplitude of the electric field is perpendicular to the interface. Not sure if more could be implied by this particular subscript.

Does that sound right?
 

FAQ: What does this subscript signify?

What is a subscript?

A subscript is a small character, number, or symbol written below the line of text. It is used in mathematical and scientific notation to indicate a specific quantity or property.

How is a subscript different from a superscript?

A subscript is written below the line of text, while a superscript is written above the line of text. Subscripts are commonly used in chemical formulas and mathematical equations, while superscripts are often used for exponents or footnotes.

What does a subscript signify in a chemical formula?

In a chemical formula, a subscript signifies the number of atoms of a specific element present in a molecule. For example, the subscript of 2 in H2O indicates that there are 2 hydrogen atoms present in a water molecule.

Why are subscripts used in mathematical equations?

Subscripts are used in mathematical equations to provide additional information and clarify the meaning of the equation. They can represent variables, coefficients, and other important quantities in the equation.

How do I format a subscript in a document or presentation?

The specific method for formatting subscripts may vary depending on the software you are using. In general, you can use the "subscript" formatting option to apply a subscript to a character or select the character and use the shortcut keys (Ctrl + = on a PC or Command + = on a Mac).

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