Is the Derivative of e^(x-1) Simply e^(x-1)?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the derivative of the function e^(x-1) and whether it remains the same as e^(x-1) when differentiated. Participants are exploring the application of the chain rule and the implications of the Maclaurin series in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants attempt to confirm the derivative of e^(x-1) using the chain rule, while others express uncertainty about the outcome. Questions about the relationship between the function and its Maclaurin series are also raised.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various attempts to clarify the derivative and its properties, with some participants suggesting that the derivative remains the same. There is a mix of interpretations regarding the use of the chain rule and the Maclaurin series, but no explicit consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention time constraints related to homework deadlines and express concerns about the availability of mentors for assistance. There is also a reference to the need for clear communication of questions in the forum.

Kristi
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PLEASE HELP need conformation on derivative of e^(x-1)

Can't remember if derivative of e^(x-1) is e^(x-1) or if it changes.
PLEASE HELP!
 
Last edited:
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It is the same (that is of course, if by the same you are referring to the derivative of exp(x-1)). Just use the chain rule to be sure.
 
The reason I am asking is because I used the chain rule and got the same thing. Do you know anything about the Maclaurin series?
 
<br /> e^x = \sum\limits_{n = 0}^\infty {\frac{{x^n }}{{n!}}} <br />

Edit: I made an error...thinking about it...might get back to you. Someone else should be able to answer.

Perhaps try to make use of: f^{\left( n \right)} \left( x \right) = e^{x - 1} \Rightarrow f^{\left( n \right)} \left( 0 \right) = e^{ - 1}

I'm not confident enough about my answer to tell you that I think it is correct but I'm thinking that the Maclaurin series for exp(x-1) is the same as exp(x) with an extra factor of exp(-1) inside the summation.
 
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Nobody seems to be out there. I have to turn this in in a few hours, plus get some sleep. It's cool, how do I get a hold of one of the mentors?
 
I don't know if there is way to just get hold of a mentor. I think you just need to wait until one of them comes online. You have the definition of the Taylor series right?

<br /> f\left( x \right) = \sum\limits_{n = 0}^\infty {f^{\left( n \right)} \left( a \right)\frac{{\left( {x - a} \right)^n }}{{n!}}} <br />

In your case a = 0. The only work that you need to do is find an expression for the nth derivative evaluated at x = 0. I kind of already gave you that.
 
Thanks I just really need to know for sure what the derivative for e^(x-1).
 
It is not clear what your question is. Please make a clear statement of the question then show what you have been able to do.

BTW, these forums are not a good place for last minute help. Plan ahead, Also consider the time you are posting. At 2am US west coast time you will not find a lot of people online here to help.
 
I just edited my first posting. I just stumbled upon this site while I was looking for help online. I have been working on this assignment for several days. When using the chain rule is stays the same. I know e^x is e^x, so does e^(x-1) stay the same also?
 
  • #10
If you differentiate exp(x-1) you will get exp(x-1). So exp(x-1) 'stays the same.'
 
  • #11
Thanks a lot Benny, you have been great!
 
  • #12
Kristi said:
Can't remember if derivative of e^(x-1) is e^(x-1) or if it changes.
PLEASE HELP!


You got to be joking, right?

e^{x-1}=e^{x}e^{-1}=\frac{1}{e}e^{x}.

So a MacLaurin series for e^{x-1} is identical, up to a multiplicative constant (\frac{1}{e}), to e^{x}'s one...:rolleyes:

Daniel.
 
  • #13
no, I've been working on this assignment all weekend, and have not gone to sleep. so would f''(x) then be 1/e^2*e^x?
 
  • #14
Your first question:
Kristi said:
Can't remember if derivative of e^(x-1) is e^(x-1) or if it changes.
PLEASE HELP!
was answered 9 minutes after you posted:
Benny said:
It is the same (that is of course, if by the same you are referring to the derivative of exp(x-1)). Just use the chain rule to be sure."

But you don't really need to do any derivatives at all. You were also told:
e^x= \sum_{n=0}^\infty \frac{x^n}{n!}
and it is obvious that ex-1= ex/e.

Your last question just echos your first:
Kristi said:
no, I've been working on this assignment all weekend, and have not gone to sleep. so would f''(x) then be 1/e^2*e^x?
If f(x)= ex-1 there are two ways of finding the derivative:
1) use the chain rule: let u=x-1 so f(u)= eu. What is df/du? What is du/dx? Multiply them together.
2) f(x)= ex-1= ex/e. What is the derivative of ex divided by a constant?
 

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