PDA

View Full Version : Derivative problem


temaire
Nov3-09, 03:17 PM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Let f(x)=\frac{1}{5x-1}, x\neq 1/5. Derive a formula for the n-th derivative f^{n}(x).


2The attempt at a solution
I have part of the answer right, but I can't figure out the rest. So far, this is what I have:
f^{n}(x)=\frac{-5^{n}}{(5x-1)^{n-1}}

I'm pretty sure I have the denominator right. I just need help finishing up the numerator.

Mark44
Nov3-09, 03:30 PM
Try writing your function as f(x) = (5x - 1)^(-1). That will make differentiating easier.