Where did the cos7x come from in the derivative of y=(1+cos²7x)³?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the derivative of the function y=(1+cos²7x)³ in a calculus context. Participants are exploring the origin of the term cos7x in the derivative expression provided by the textbook.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the derivation of cos7x and discussing the steps involved in differentiating the function, including the derivatives of cos²(7x) and the chain rule application.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered hints and clarifications regarding the differentiation process, while others have acknowledged the guidance received. The conversation indicates a collaborative effort to understand the derivative without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be some confusion regarding the application of the chain rule and the derivatives involved, which may be contributing to the questions raised about the terms in the derivative.

ms. confused
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OK, in Calculus, in finding the derivative of y=(1+cos²7x)³ my textbook says the answer is -42(1+cos²7x)²cos7xsin7x. Where did they get the cos7x from?
 
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Hint: What's the derivative of [itex]cos^2(7x)[/itex] ?
 
What is the derivative of

[tex]1+\cos^{2}7x[/tex]

?

Daniel.
 
The derivative of

[tex]\left( 1 + \cos^2 7x \right) ^3[/tex]

is

[tex]3 \cdot \left( 1 + \cos^2 7x \right) ^2[/tex]

...times the derivative of the stuff inside the ^3, which is

[tex]2 \cdot \cos 7x[/tex]

...times the derivative of the stuff inside the ^2, which is

[tex]-\sin 7x[/tex]

...times the derivative of the stuff inside the sin, which is 7.

So, in total, we have

[tex]3 \cdot \left( 1 + \cos^2 7x \right) ^2 \cdot 2 \cdot \cos 7x \cdot -\sin 7x \cdot 7[/tex]

which reduces to the answer you've been shown.

- Warren
 
I think Warren started writing his post ahead of us,Doc.:smile:

Daniel.
 
Alright, I think I was just overlooking a few things. Thank-you all for pointing me in the right direction.
 

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