Using the Product Rule to Differentiate a Math Problem - Quick Question

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    Differentiation
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the differentiation of the function y = 20x (2x - 1)^6 using the product rule and the application of the chain rule. Participants explore the correct approach to differentiate the term (2x - 1)^6 and clarify the use of different differentiation rules.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes using the product rule for differentiation, defining u = 20x and v = (2x - 1)^6.
  • Another participant questions the differentiation of v, suggesting it should equal 6(2x - 1)^5 based on the chain rule.
  • There is a suggestion that the differentiation of v should yield 12(2x - 1)^5, indicating a potential misunderstanding of the differentiation process.
  • One participant confirms the use of the chain rule to differentiate v, reinforcing the previous point about the correct application of differentiation rules.
  • A later reply mentions the possibility of using software like Maple to simplify the process by expanding the polynomial before differentiation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the correct differentiation of v, with some supporting the use of 6(2x - 1)^5 and others suggesting it should be 12(2x - 1)^5. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the correct application of the differentiation rules.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note that the original function may have been miswritten, which could affect the differentiation process. There are also mentions of missing steps in the instructional material being used.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals learning differentiation techniques, particularly those interested in the product and chain rules in calculus.

The Bob
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Quick question.

To differentiate [tex]y = 20x (2x - 1)^6[/tex] I need to use the product rule:

[tex]y = uv \ \Rightarrow \ \frac{dy}{dx} = v\frac{du}{dx} + u\frac{dv}{dx}[/tex]

So that u = 20x and v = (2x-1)6

However, do I differentiate v so that it equals 6(2x-1)5 or do I use:

[tex]y = [f(x)]^n \ \Rightarrow \ \frac{dy}{dx} = n[f(x)]^{n-1} f'(x)[/tex]

to give 12(2x-1)5?

Cheers.

The Bob (2004 ©)
 
Last edited:
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Why should it equal 6(2x-1)^5?
You are to differentiate v with respect to "x", not with respect to "2x-1".
 
arildno said:
Why should it equal 6(2x-1)^5?
You are to differentiate v with respect to "x", not with respect to "2x-1".
Therefore it must be 12(2x-1)5?

The Bob (2004 ©)
 
Precisely, by the chain rule!
 
arildno said:
Precisely, by the chain rule!
Cheers.

Sorry it seemed so trivial but I only started teaching myself tonight and the book I have sometimes misses some of the stages out e.g. I actually have v = (x-1)6 but this will come to 6(x-1)5 as the x-1 will become 1.

Was simply checking.

Appreciate the help.

Cheers again. :biggrin:

The Bob (2004 ©)
 
It would be much easier to put Maple/other software to expand that bynomial make the multiplications and the then differentiate each term of the resulting sum.

My guess...

Daniel.
 
dextercioby said:
It would be much easier to put Maple/other software to expand that bynomial make the multiplications and the then differentiate each term of the resulting sum.

My guess...

Daniel.
Are you trying to bait me?
 

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