Stuck on Natural Log Derivative Problem?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on finding the second derivative of the function y = ln(x^8). The correct second derivative is confirmed to be d²y/dx² = -8/x², while the incorrect calculation yielded -8/x⁹. The key to solving this problem lies in correctly applying the chain rule and maintaining proper operator precedence during differentiation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus, specifically differentiation techniques.
  • Familiarity with the natural logarithm function and its properties.
  • Knowledge of the chain rule in calculus.
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions involving exponents.
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the chain rule in calculus for differentiating composite functions.
  • Practice finding derivatives of logarithmic functions, particularly with exponentiation.
  • Explore higher-order derivatives and their applications in calculus.
  • Study operator precedence in mathematical expressions to avoid common errors.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, educators teaching differentiation, and anyone seeking to improve their understanding of logarithmic derivatives.

compute_a_nerd
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Hello all. I am stuck on this homework problem. It wants me to find
[tex] \frac {d^2y} {dx^2} [/tex]
when [tex]y= ln x^8[/tex]
The book answer is [tex]\frac {-8}{x^2}[/tex]
But I only can get [tex]\frac {-8}{x^9)}[/tex]

Please give me some guidance
Thanks
 
Last edited:
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compute_a_nerd said:
Hello all. I am stuck on this homework problem. It wants me to find
[tex] \frac {d^2y} {dx^2} [/tex]
when [tex]y= ln x^8[/tex]
The book answer is [tex]\frac {-8}{x^2}[/tex]
But I only can get [tex]\frac {-8}{x^9)}[/tex]

Please give me some guidance
Thanks

Need to keep very clear the precedence of operators so write it as:

[tex]y=ln(x^8)[/tex]

Now, just differentiate once to get 8/x, one more time to get the book's answer.
 
Thx so much
 

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