Log Differentiation: Find dy/dx of (cosx)^sinx

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the derivative of the function y = (cosx)^sinx using log differentiation. Participants are exploring the application of logarithmic properties and differentiation techniques in the context of calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the process of applying logarithms to both sides of the equation and using properties of logarithms to simplify the differentiation. There are questions about the correct use of natural logarithms versus other logarithmic bases, and some participants express uncertainty about the initial steps in the differentiation process.

Discussion Status

Several participants have provided insights on how to approach the problem using log differentiation, including suggestions to apply the chain rule and product rule. There is an ongoing exploration of the correct logarithmic base to use, with some participants questioning the implications of using different bases.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express confusion regarding the notation and properties of logarithms, particularly in relation to the natural logarithm and its derivatives. There is a mention of the need to clarify the initial steps in applying logarithmic differentiation.

bengalibabu
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Using log differentiation, find dy/dx, in terms of x for the following:
y = (cosx)^sinx

any help wud be appreciated, I am unsure of how to start this question, thanks in advance
 
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Logarithmate and differentiate using the chain rule.

Daniel.
 
all i need help is in how to logarithmate it, if i understood that then i should be able to differentiate it easily
 
[tex]a = e^{\ln{a}}[/tex] where 'ln' is natural log.
 
Then use chain rule plus product rule. The other way is to differentiate implicitly after taking logs of both sides.
 
Apply logarithm on both sides, and use the property of logs [itex]\ln a^b = b \ln a[/itex]
 
ok. i think i got it

y = (cosx)^sinx
logy = log(cosx^sinx)
logy=sinx(logcosx)
(dy/dx)(1/(yln10)) = sinx(1/cosx(ln10) + log(cosx^cosx)
(dy/dx)=[(tanx/ln10) + (log(cosx^cosx))](yln10)

jus let me know if I am on the right track. thanks for your help guys.
 
I think so, but why this ln 10??

[tex]\ln y = \sin x \ln (\cos x)[/tex]

[tex]\frac{dy}{dx} \frac{1}{y} = \sin x \frac{-\sin x}{\cos x} + \cos x \\ln (\cos x)[/tex]

[tex]\frac{dy}{dx} = (\cos x)^{\sin x}(\sin x \frac{-\sin x}{\cos x} + \cos x \ln (\cos x))[/tex]
 
isnt the derivative of log(base)x = 1/xln(base) ?
 
  • #10
Yes, you should have used natural logarithm to avoid that, but it's ok.
 
  • #11
how could u have used natural logs to avoid that?
 
  • #12
o nevermind stupid question lol. i should have converted log to ln then found the deriative.
 
  • #13
hah - "logarithmate"? I would prefer "logarithmize"
 

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