Find the derivative of the function.

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    Derivative Function
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the derivative of the function h(t) = (t^4 - 1)^3(t^3 + 1)^4. Participants are seeking a step-by-step breakdown of the differentiation process, including the application of relevant calculus rules.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants request a detailed, step-by-step solution for differentiating h(t).
  • One participant suggests using the Chain Rule and proposes a simpler problem for practice.
  • Another participant outlines the application of the product rule and chain rule, providing the derivatives of each factor and combining them according to the product rule.
  • A participant reminds others that showing work is necessary to receive help on homework problems at Physics Forums.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on a single approach to the problem, as participants provide different levels of detail and methods for differentiation. The discussion includes multiple viewpoints on how to tackle the derivative.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express confusion regarding the notation and the application of differentiation rules, indicating potential misunderstandings or ambiguities in the problem statement.

klmdad
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Can you work this out step by step so I can see how to do it. Thank you
h(t) = (t^4 - 1)^3(t^3+1)^4
 
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klmdad said:
Can you work this out step by step so I can see how to do it. Thank you
h(t) = (t^4 - 1)^3(t^3+1)^4

It's a bit ambiguous. Do you mean:

[tex](t^4-1)^3 (t^3+1)^4[/tex]

I think so. In that case, need to use the Chain Rule. If it confussing to you, try a simpler problem first (I do that too). For example, try this one:

[tex](t^2-1)t^3[/tex]

Wouldn't that just be:

[tex](t^2-1)3t^2+t^3(2t)[/tex]
 
klmdad said:
Can you work this out step by step so I can see how to do it. Thank you
h(t) = (t^4 - 1)^3(t^3+1)^4

Well you're going to use the product rule, so first use the chain rule to get the derivative of each factor:

[tex]\left[ (t^4 - 1)^3 \right]^{\prime} = 3(t^4 - 1)^2 4t^3 = 12t^3(t^4-1)^2[/tex]

[tex]\left[ (t^3 + 1)^4 \right]^{\prime} = 4(t^3 + 1) 3t^2 = 12t^2(t^3 + 1)^3[/tex]

Then apply the product rule:

[tex]12t^3(t^4-1)^2 (t^3 + 1)^4 + 12t^2(t^3 + 1)^3 (t^4 - 1)^3[/tex]
 
klmdad said:
Can you work this out step by step so I can see how to do it.

We don't do that here. At Physics Forums you have to show your work to receive homework help.
 

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