Derivative of a Line - A Newbie Question

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the derivative of a linear function, specifically addressing a theorem related to the derivative of a line and the concept of tangent lines. The scope includes conceptual clarification and mathematical reasoning.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the theorem stating that for a linear function f(x)=kx+b, the derivative f'(x)=k, expressing confusion about the definition of a tangent line.
  • The same participant provides an example with f(x)=2x and calculates the tangent line at a point, leading to a perceived contradiction.
  • Another participant corrects the point of tangency mentioned in the example, indicating it should be (1,2) instead of (2,2).
  • The original poster acknowledges the mistake of selecting a point outside the line, expressing a sense of embarrassment.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the mathematical principles involved, but there is a moment of confusion regarding the correct point of tangency, which is clarified by another participant. The discussion reflects a learning process rather than a settled conclusion.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights a misunderstanding related to the selection of points for tangent lines, which may depend on the definitions and context of the functions involved.

danne89
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Hi again! Time for one more of my newbie questions.
I'm reading "Elementary Calculus: An Approach Using Infinitesimals
" http://www.math.wisc.edu/~keisler/calc.html and can't get a theorem on a lines derivative. It goes like this:
[tex]f(x)=kx+b \Rightarrow \frac{dy}{dx} = f'(x) = k[/tex]

That doesn't make seens to me because the definition of a tangent line is
g(x)=f'(x)(x-a)+b, there (a, b) is the point of the tangent.

For instance, let's say f(x)=2x. The f'(x)=2, using the above theorem. And then the tangent for the point (2, 2) ought to be l(x)=2(x-2)+2=2x-4+2=2x-2. But it's parallell to f(x)=2x! What am I doing wrong, please give me a hint!
 
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Eeh, the point is (1,2), not (2,2), so:
l(x)=2(x-1)+2=2x
 
Ohh. I took a point OUTSIDE the line. I feel so dumb...
 
Thanks for the support. By the way, many from Scandinavia here, isn't. The reson to care is that I'm a Swede. Anyway, maybe enought OT talk now.
 

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