How do I Find the Derivative of sin(2x)?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on finding the derivative of the function sin(2x). Participants explore various methods and approaches to derive this result, including limits and trigonometric identities. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and technical explanations.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a limit definition approach to find the derivative but expresses uncertainty about simplifying the expression.
  • Another participant suggests using the limit property of sine to simplify the process, indicating that it could make the problem trivial if allowed.
  • A different participant builds on the limit definition of the derivative, manipulating the expression to relate it to known limits, ultimately arriving at the derivative as 2cos(2x).
  • One participant humorously notes a misunderstanding regarding the function to differentiate, clarifying that the derivative of sin(2x) is simpler than initially thought.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on a single method for finding the derivative, as participants present different approaches and some express uncertainty about the steps involved. Multiple competing views remain regarding the best method to use.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reference specific limit properties and trigonometric identities, but the discussion does not resolve the assumptions or conditions under which these properties apply.

SomeRandomGuy
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To find the derivative of sin(2x). So far here is what I did:

lim h -> 0 (sin(2x+2h)-sin(2x))/h
= (sin2xcos2h+cos2xsin2h-sin2x)/h
= (2sinxcosx(cos2h-1)+2sinhcoshcos2x)/h

I'm stuck here... can't remember how to simplify this. Thanks. I also left out some steps, I don't know how to use the latex graphics yet and didn't want it to get to garbled.
 
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Are you allowed to use the fact that

[tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow 0} \frac{\sin{\alpha x}}{\alpha x} = 1 \ \mbox{if} \ \mathbb{R} \ni \alpha \neq 0[/tex]

? If so, it's completely trivial. Just use [tex]\sin{x} - \sin{a} = 2\cos{\frac{x+a}{2}} \sin{\frac{x-a}{2}}[/tex].
 
If you know
lim h -> 0, (sin(x+h)-sin(x))/h = cos(x),
then

lim h -> 0,
(sin(2x+2h)-sin(2x))/h
= (2/2)*(sin(2x+2h)-sin(2x))/h ... that is, multiply by 1 in a funny way
= 2(sin(2x+2h)-sin(2x))/(2h)
= 2(sin(X+H)-sin(X))/(H) where X=2x and H=2h (note that lim h->0 implies lim H->0)

= 2cos(X)
= 2cos(2x)
 
Haha, somehow I got the idea that you wanted to find the derivative of [tex]\sin{x}[/tex] (which is actually "harder"). All you need for [tex]\sin{2x}[/tex] is

[tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow 0} \frac{\sin{x}}{x} = 1[/tex]
 

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