For $f(x)=x$, the half-derivative of $f$ is
$$\frac{d^{\frac{1}{2}}}{dx^{\frac{1}{2}}} x = 2 \sqrt{\frac{x}{\pi}} \;.$$
Is there some geometric interpretation of (**Q1**) this specific derivative, and, (**Q2**) of the half-derivative more generally? I have read that fractional derivatives are nonlocal,
but it seems strange to me that integral derivatives
can be described in terms of local
geometry only, while fractional derivatives cannot be so described.
This would suggest an odd discontinuity between, say, $d^{1}$ and $d^{1.01}$.
This seems especially at odds with [the many applications of fractional derivatives][1],
which (superficially) suggests continuity should reign.

I'd appreciate someone clearing up my elementary confusions—Thanks in advance!


  [1]: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fractional_calculus#Applications