Calculating the 46th Derivative of a Quotient Function

  • Thread starter Thread starter Kingyou123
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Derivative
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the 46th derivative of the function f(x) = (x^46 + x^45 + 2)/(x + 1) at x = 3. The problem involves the application of the quotient rule and the complexity of higher-order derivatives.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the challenges of finding a pattern in the derivatives and question the effectiveness of using the quotient rule. One participant suggests performing polynomial long division before differentiating, while another questions the arithmetic of the resulting expression.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different approaches to the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the method of division prior to differentiation, and there is an active examination of the arithmetic involved in the function's simplification.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on the complexity of calculating high-order derivatives and the potential for misinterpretation of the function's form. Participants are also navigating the implications of using the quotient rule versus simplifying the expression first.

Kingyou123
Messages
98
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


If f(x) =(x^46 + x^45 + 2)/(x + 1)
, calculate f(46)(3), the forty-sixth derivative of f(x) at x = 3. Express
your answer using factorial notation: n! = n (n 1) (n 2) 3 2 1.

Homework Equations


Quotient rule

The Attempt at a Solution


I have tried trying to find a pattern, I'm on the third derivative and it seems really complicated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Kingyou123 said:

Homework Statement


If f(x) =(x^46 + x^45 + 2)/(x + 1)
, calculate f(46)(3), the forty-sixth derivative of f(x) at x = 3. Express
your answer using factorial notation: n! = n (n 1) (n 2) 3 2 1.

Homework Equations


Quotient rule

The Attempt at a Solution


I have tried trying to find a pattern, I'm on the third derivative and it seems really complicated.
Have you thought about doing the division before taking the derivative? I don't think that starting off with the quotient rule is the way to go.
 
So I get x^45+0, would I just take the 46 derivative of this(which would be 0)?
 
Check your arithmetic. That quotient doesn't equal ##x^{45}##.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
26
Views
4K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K