How Do You Derive the Derivative of y=sin^3(1-2x)?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the derivative of the function y=sin^3(1-2x). Participants are exploring the application of the chain rule in calculus to derive the correct expression for the derivative.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are discussing the application of the chain rule, identifying nested functions, and questioning the differentiation steps taken. There are attempts to clarify the roles of the outer and inner functions in the differentiation process.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on applying the chain rule more carefully, suggesting a breakdown of the function into its components. There is a consensus among some that option (D) is the correct answer, but the discussion remains open as others seek further clarification on the differentiation process.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the importance of careful differentiation and the potential for misunderstanding when multiple functions are involved. There is also a reference to graphing the functions as a method of verification.

kreil
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If [tex]y=sin^3(1-2x)[/tex] then [tex]\frac{dy}{dx}=?[/tex]
a)[tex]3sin^2(1-2x)[/tex]
b)[tex]-2cos^3(1-2x)[/tex]
c)[tex]-6sin^2(1-2x)[/tex]
d)[tex]-6sin^2(1-2x)cos(1-2x)[/tex]
e)[tex]-6cos^2(1-2x)[/tex]

Here is my work:

[tex]\frac{dy}{dx}=3cos^2(1-2x)(-2)=-6cos^2(1-2x)[/tex]

When I checked the problem with my friend, he had (B) and after we discussed it we decided to graph the functions to find the answer and according to that the answer is (D). Can someone show me the work for that answer, I don't really understand how it could be obtained.
 
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Answer is d). Apply the chain rule more carefully. There are three nested functions to consider here : sin(z), y^3, (1 - 2x). You missed out on differentiating the sin(z) part
 
Last edited:
D) is certainly the correct answer.
When using the chain rule, it is crucial to be clear on what is the outer function and what is the kernel(s).

In order to develop a proficiency in this, you should begin with being VERY careful
(as you get more experience, you can drop a few of the intermediate steps:
Here's one way
1. Set u(x)=1-2x
2) Set v(u)=sin(u)
3) Set w(v)=v^3

Hence,
[tex]y(x)=w(v(u(x)))[/tex]
Or:
[tex]\frac{dy}{dx}=\frac{dw}{dv}\frac{dv}{du}\frac{du}{dx}[/tex]
Now, we have:
[tex]\frac{dw}{dv}=3v^{2},\frac{dv}{du}=\cos(u), \frac{du}{dx}=-2[/tex]

Now, assemble your answer.
 
The answer is (D). You have to apply the chain rule twice.

A little elaborate way to use the chain rule is by substitution:
Let [itex]u=\sin(v)[/itex] and [itex]v=1-2x[/itex]

Then:
[tex]y=u^3[/tex]
and
[tex]\frac{dy}{dx}=\frac{dy}{du}\frac{du}{dx}=\frac{dy}{du}\frac{du}{dv}\frac{dv}{du}[/tex]

Work it out and you'll get (D).
 

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