Find the derivative an determine the values

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the derivative of the function f(x) = (x-3)^{4}/(x^{2}+2x) and determining the values for which this derivative equals zero. Participants are exploring the implications of the derivative's structure and the conditions under which it can be solved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are examining the conditions under which the derivative equals zero, specifically questioning whether it is the numerator or denominator that influences this condition. There are discussions about factoring the derivative and ensuring the correctness of its formulation.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with some participants providing guidance on checking the correctness of the derivative and discussing the implications of missing parentheses. There is a recognition of the need for clarity in the derivative's expression before proceeding further.

Contextual Notes

There are mentions of potential errors in the derivative calculation and the importance of parentheses in the expression, which may affect the interpretation of the problem. Participants are also navigating the constraints of homework rules regarding solution completeness.

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Suppose [tex]f(x) = \frac{(x-3)^{4}}{x^{2}+2x}[/tex]. Find the derivative an determine the values for which it is equal to 0. So [tex]f'(x) = \frac{x^{2}+2x(4(x-3)^{3}) - (x-3)^{4}(2x+2)}{(x^{2}+2x)^{2}}[/tex]. But now how would I go about finding the values for which the derivative equals 0? [tex]f'(x) = \frac{x^{2}+2x(4(x-3)^{3}) (x-3)^{4}(2x+2)}{(x^{2}+2x)^{2}} = 0[/tex]. Is it possible to factor?

Thanks
 
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For any fraction, let's call it [itex]\frac{A}{B}[/itex], which part will make the whole thing equal to 0? A or B?
 
A

will yeah
 
plugpoint said:
Suppose [tex]f(x) = \frac{(x-3)^{4}}{x^{2}+2x}[/tex]. Find the derivative an determine the values for which it is equal to 0. So [tex]f'(x) = \frac{(x^{2}+2x)(4(x-3)^{3}) - (x-3)^{4}(2x+2)}{(x^{2}+2x)^{2}}[/tex]. But now how would I go about finding the values for which the derivative equals 0? [tex]f'(x) = \frac{x^{2}+2x(4(x-3)^{3}) (x-3)^{4}(2x+2)}{(x^{2}+2x)^{2}} = 0[/tex]. Is it possible to factor?

Thanks
You missed a set of parentheses.
 
Your derivative isn't correct yet, make sure you check that first!
 
The derivative is correct, assuming that the missing parentheses BobG mentions is put in correctly!
 

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