Understanding Derivatives of Exponential Functions

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the derivatives of various exponential functions, focusing on the application of differentiation rules such as the product rule, chain rule, and quotient rule. Participants are seeking clarification on specific derivative calculations as part of exam preparation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the derivative of the function x^3 e^2x, specifically regarding the term (3+2x) in the result, and seeks clarification on how it is derived.
  • Another participant suggests that the term (3+2x) arises from factoring common parts, indicating a method of simplification.
  • For the second function, e^(x^2+1)^1/2, a participant indicates that the chain rule should be applied, but questions whether they are correctly applying the derivative of the square root.
  • In discussing the third function, (e^2x - 2e^x)^2, a participant believes they are close to the correct answer but feels something is being missed in their calculations.
  • Regarding the fourth function, e^x + e^-x / e^x - e^-x, a participant mentions using the quotient rule but ends up with a similar expression, prompting questions about their approach.
  • One participant offers a more detailed explanation of the derivative for the first exercise, asserting that it is not difficult, while another participant expresses a desire for further clarification.
  • There is a suggestion that a solid understanding of introductory algebra is necessary for calculus, indicating a belief that foundational knowledge is important for tackling these problems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding and confidence in their derivative calculations, with some seeking further clarification while others provide explanations. There is no consensus on the correctness of the approaches taken for each function, and multiple viewpoints on the application of differentiation rules are present.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific differentiation rules but do not fully resolve the uncertainties or errors in their calculations. The discussion reflects a range of understanding regarding the application of these rules.

Struggling
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Hi all just studying up for my exam I am scared,

ive been going over some practice questions and I am stuck with a couple and would like some better understanding of another.

first of all:
determine the derivatives of each of the following functions
(1) x^3 e^2x

with this i know that the answer is x^2(3+2x)e^2x. i got the answer right but even I am not sure how, could someone explain to me the (3+2x) in the brackets, i don't understand it because i know d/dx e^x = e^x and d/dx e^f(x) = e^f(x) x f '(x).


(2) e^(x^2+1)^1/2

with this one i tried using the chain rule for (x^2+1)^1/2 to get the derivative, i got what i thought was the right answer but wasnt. what am i doing wrong here? am i using the right rule?

(3) (e^2x - 2e^x)^2

once again i tried the chain rule here ended up getting close to the answer but it all seemed to cancel each other out? i believe i got close to this one but iam missing something. once again am i using the right rule?


(4) e^x + e^-x / e^x - e^-x

i tried the quotient rule for this one but i pretty much ended up with the same but with (e^x - e^-x) on top with e^x + e^-x.

any help would be appreciated thanks guys
 
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Alright,let's take it methodically.

For the first exercise,i have a hunch that "(3+2x)" comes from that simple algebra operation called "factoring of common parts" which comes from the distributivity of the multiplication wrt addition.

For the second,it's just chain rule.You must be screwing up that sqrt's derivative.

For the third,hmm,i think it's easier than the second.

The fourth is simply [itex]\left(\coth x\right)'[/itex].It's "-1" times "hyperbolic cosecant squared".

Daniel.
 
dextercioby said:
Alright,let's take it methodically.

For the first exercise,i have a hunch that "(3+2x)" comes from that simple algebra operation called "factoring of common parts" which comes from the distributivity of the multiplication wrt addition.

sorry still not on the ball, would you care to explain in a little more depth?

and thank you for the help on the other 3.
 
[tex]\left(x^{3}e^{2x}\right)'=3x^{2}e^{2x}+2x^{3}e^{2x}=x^{2}\left(3+2x\right) e^{2x}[/tex]

I say it's not that difficult,is it...?

Daniel.
 
ohhh i get you :blushing: sorry
 
We'd like to think introductory algebra as a prerequisite for calculus.So my advice is to brush on some rusty simple theorems in elementary algebra.

Daniel.
 

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