More on derivative of an exponential

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    Derivative Exponential
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the differentiation of exponential functions, specifically exploring whether there exists a function g(cx) such that the derivative of exp(g(cx)) yields a specific form involving the reciprocal of a constant. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and exploration of function properties.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that d/dx(exp(cx)) = c(exp(cx)), where c is a constant, and question if a function g(cx) can be found such that d/dx(exp(g(cx))) = 1/c(exp(g(cx))).
  • One participant proposes that if cx = h, then g(h) = h/c², leading to a derivative expression that simplifies to (1/c)exp(g(h)).
  • Another participant critiques the previous claim, stating that the transformation does not fully address the original question and merely changes the constant from c to 1/c.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that the function g(h(x)) = x/c + C could satisfy the derivative condition, but acknowledges a misunderstanding of the original question.
  • One participant expresses a desire to maintain the linear constant relationship in the argument of the exponential function while obtaining the reciprocal constant upon differentiation.
  • Another participant concludes that the only solution is g(h) = h/c² + C or g(cx) = x/c + C, noting that while this provides the desired derivative, it does not preserve the linear relationship due to the cancellation of constants.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the existence and form of the function g(cx) that meets the criteria set forth in the original question. There is no consensus on a definitive solution, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the preservation of the linear relationship in the argument.

Contextual Notes

Participants note limitations in their approaches, including assumptions about the nature of constants and the implications of transformations on the linear relationship in the argument of the exponential function.

Loren Booda
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We know that d/dx(exp(cx))=c(exp(cx)), where c is a constant.

Does there exist a function g(cx) such that d/dx(exp(g(cx)))=1/c(exp(g(cx))) ?
 
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If cx=h, then g(h)=h/c2.
d[eg(h)]/dx=(dg/dh)(dh/dx)eg(h)=(1/c2)(c)eg(h)=(1/c)eg(h)
 
If cx=h, then g(h)=h/c2.
deg(h)/dx=(dg/dh)(dh/dx)eg(h)=(1/c2)(c)eg(h)=(1/c)eg(h)
That doesn't really answer the question. All you have is
d(ex/c/dx=(1/c)ex/c. In other words, you have changed from c to 1/c.
 
I know it's only a small change but it answers the question. Loren wanted a composite function g(h(x)) such that d[eg]/dx=(1/c)eg. Clearly dg/dx=1/c. I did forget a constant: g(h(x))=x/c+C, h(x)=cx, g(cx)=x/c+C=cx/c2+C=h/c2+C. Perhaps I misunderstand the question.
 
Perhaps I am asking how one might take a "function of linear constant" in an exponential argument and obtain the reciprocal constant upon differentiation. (I explained the problem better mathematically in my original post.) I tend to agree with mathman here, that I wanted to preserve the linear constant relationship in the argument.

Any solutions?
 
The only solution is g(h)=h/c2+C or g(cx)=x/c+C. If h=cx, then you get the desired derivative but you can't preserve the linear relationship (if by that you mean the "cx" term) because the c's cancel. Although, technically, it is linear. Since c is a constant, so is 1/c. But as far as your question goes, there are no solutions that provide what you're looking for.
d[eg(cx)]/dx=[dg/d(cx)][d(cx)/dx]eg(cx)=(1/c)eg(cx)
since eg(cx) is never zero, you can divide the last two parts of the equation by this term and you get,
[dg/d(cx)][d(cx)/dx]=1/c
[dg/d(cx)]c=1/c
dg/d(cx)=1/c2
dg=[1/c2]d(cx)
let u=cx
du=d(cx)
dg=[1/c2]du
g=u/c2+C=x/c+C
This is the only family of functions that will satisfy that equation.
 
Last edited:

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