Find the derivative of the function

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    Derivative Function
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the derivatives of two functions using calculus techniques, specifically the chain rule and product rule. Participants share their approaches and seek clarification on the methods involved.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Post 1 expresses a need for assistance in finding the derivatives of two functions, indicating that the chain rule is expected to be used.
  • Post 2 provides a detailed attempt to solve the first problem using the chain rule, presenting a step-by-step calculation and referencing useful derivative formulas.
  • Post 3 suggests that the product rule should be applied to the first function, emphasizing its importance in the solution process.
  • Post 4 acknowledges the help received but notes that they attempted to solve the problem using only the chain rule, without employing the product rule.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the preferred method for solving the derivative problems, as some advocate for the product rule while others focus on the chain rule. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach.

Contextual Notes

There may be limitations in understanding the application of the product and chain rules, as well as potential confusion regarding the specific roles of each in the derivative calculations.

bjon-07
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I am in math 50 (calc one) and i would greatly appreate it if someone could please show me how to solve these problems. I have the anwsers, but i can't figure out how to get them. thank you

In both problems i am need to find the derivative of the function,(we just learned the chain rule, so i am 'supposed to' use that to figure them out. But if you know a another way, great.

problem one

y=te^(-t^2) i normally know how to solve this problems but the t before the e is messing me up. the answer is e^(-t^2)(1-2t^2)

second problem

y=(z^(1/2)/e^z) the answer is e^-z/(2(z^(1/2))-(z^(1/2))e^-Z

thank you again for your help.
 
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Originally posted by bjon-07
In both problems i am need to find the derivative of the function,(we just learned the chain rule, so i am 'supposed to' use that to figure them out. But if you know a another way, great.

problem one

y=te^(-t^2) i normally know how to solve this problems but the t before the e is messing me up. the answer is e^(-t^2)(1-2t^2)


The following two formulae are useful

1. d/dx ex = ex

2. d/dx eg(x)= g'(x) eg(x) (this is an example of chain rule, if you need further explanation, please tell.)

I'll do the first question and the second one is similar to the first one.

Let
f(t) = te(-t2)

f'(t) = t d/dt(e(-t2)) + e(-t2)d/dt (t)

= t*(-2t)* e(-t2) (use formula 2 above) + e(-t2)

= e-t2[1-2t2]
 
K L Kam did a good job so I'll just content my self with pointing out, since bjon-07 said specifically that it was the "t before the e" that was giving him trouble: use the PRODUCT rule!
(fg)'= f g'+ f' g

KL Kam used it when he said
"f'(t) = t d/dt(e(-t2)) + e(-t2)d/dt (t)"
 
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Thank you for your help

Thank you for your help. I was trying to solve the whole thing using only the chain rule ( i did not use the product rule).
 

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