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View Full Version : Find the derivative of arctan(6x)


jumbogala
Mar10-09, 02:30 AM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Find the derivative of arctan(6x).


2. Relevant equations



3. The attempt at a solution
Ok, I know the derivative of arctan(x) is 1/(x^2 + 1).

So I am trying to make the substitution u = 6x.

Then the derivative of arctan(u) should be 1/(u^2 + 1)... and therefore 1/(36x^2 +1).

But that's not right... what am I doing wrong?

lanedance
Mar10-09, 02:43 AM
if you make the subsitition u(x) = 6x

then you have
\frac{d}{dx} arctan(u(x))

so you need to use the chain rule...

jumbogala
Mar10-09, 02:44 AM
I can't read your equation...

jumbogala
Mar10-09, 02:46 AM
Okay, so:

1/(u^2 +1) multiplied by the derivative of u?

HallsofIvy
Mar10-09, 04:39 AM
Yes. And since u= 6x, its derivative is ?

jumbogala
Mar10-09, 07:26 PM
6/(36x^2 +1)?

Thank you!