 |
|
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
|
|
partial differential equation
An equation that involves derivatives with respect to more than one variable. Many of the equations used to model the physics of the real world are partial differential equations.
For example, a wave in two dimensions has an amplitude (height) U which depends on time t and also on the two distance measurements x and y along mutually perpendicular axes. The differential equation representing the wave is
where c is the wave's velocity. When solved, the solution U will give the amplitude of the wave at any point (x, y).
Symbols such as δ2δx2 are called partial derivatives.
Related category
• MATHEMATICS
Also on this site:
Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History
Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site)