Chain rule for denominator in second order derivatives

In summary, the chain rule for denominators in second order derivatives is used in calculus to find the second derivative of a function with a denominator that is also a function. It is important in solving optimization problems and finding the concavity of a function. An example of its application was provided, and it is crucial in many areas of mathematics and science. Common mistakes include forgetting to use or incorrectly applying the chain rule.
  • #1
redtree
285
13
TL;DR Summary
What is the chain rule for switching the denominator of a second order derivative?
Given ## \frac{d^2x}{dy^2} ##, what is the chain rule for transforming to ##\frac{d^2 x}{dz^2} ##?

(This is not a homework question)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
##dx/dz = dx/dy*dy/dz## (chain rule)
So
##d^2x/d^2z = dx/dy*d^2y/d^2z + d^2x/dydz*dy/dz## (product rule) (Corrected as @PeroK pointed out)
 
Last edited:
  • #3
FactChecker said:
##dx/dz = dx/dy*dy/dz## (chain rule)
So
##d^2x/d^2z = dx/dy*d^2y/d^2z + d^2x/dxdz*dy/dz## (product rule)

You've got a typo there. The second term should be ##\frac{d^2x}{dydz}##.
 
  • Like
Likes FactChecker
  • #4
Great. Thanks so much!
 

1. What is the chain rule for denominators in second order derivatives?

The chain rule for denominators in second order derivatives is a mathematical rule used to find the derivative of a function with a fraction in the denominator. It states that the derivative of the function is equal to the derivative of the numerator multiplied by the denominator, minus the numerator multiplied by the derivative of the denominator, all divided by the square of the denominator.

2. When is the chain rule for denominators in second order derivatives used?

The chain rule for denominators in second order derivatives is used when finding the second derivative of a function that has a fraction in the denominator. This is often seen in problems involving rates of change or optimization.

3. Can the chain rule for denominators in second order derivatives be applied to any function?

Yes, the chain rule for denominators in second order derivatives can be applied to any function that involves a fraction in the denominator. It is a fundamental rule in calculus and is used in various applications in science and engineering.

4. How is the chain rule for denominators in second order derivatives derived?

The chain rule for denominators in second order derivatives is derived from the quotient rule, which states that the derivative of a fraction is equal to the derivative of the numerator multiplied by the denominator, minus the numerator multiplied by the derivative of the denominator, all divided by the square of the denominator. By applying this rule twice, we can derive the chain rule for denominators in second order derivatives.

5. What are some common mistakes made when using the chain rule for denominators in second order derivatives?

Some common mistakes when using the chain rule for denominators in second order derivatives include forgetting to square the denominator, mixing up the order of the terms in the numerator, and not properly applying the chain rule to both the numerator and denominator. It is important to carefully follow the steps and double check the calculations to avoid these mistakes.

Similar threads

Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Calculus
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Calculus
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Calculus
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
912
Replies
1
Views
857
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Back
Top