MHB Calculating the Derivative of a Function Using the Chain Rule

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The discussion focuses on calculating the derivative of the function F(x) = (7x^6 + 8x^3)^4 using the chain rule. The derivative is expressed as F'(x) = 4(7x^6 + 8x^3)^3(42x^5 + 24x^2). There is confusion regarding the appearance of the term 11 in the final expression, specifically in the factor 24x^{11}(7x^3 + 4)(7x^3 + 8)^3. Participants clarify that the confusion arises from the first factor being expressed incorrectly, leading to the misunderstanding. The conversation highlights the common challenges in derivative calculations and the importance of careful factorization.
karush
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find $F'(x)$
$$F(x)=(7x^6+8x^3)^4$$
chain rule
$$4(7x^6+8x^3)^3(42x^5+24x^2)$$
factor
$$4x^3(7x^3+8)^3 6x^2(7x^3+4)$$

ok W|A returned this but don't see where the 11 came from
$$24 x^{11} (7 x^3 + 4) (7 x^3 + 8)^3$$
 
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karush said:
find $F'(x)$
$$F(x)=(7x^6+8x^3)^4$$
chain rule
$$4(7x^6+8x^3)^3(42x^5+24x^2)$$
factor
$$4x^3(7x^3+8)^3 6x^2(7x^3+4)$$

ok W|A returned this but don't see where the 11 came from
$$24 x^{11} (7 x^3 + 4) (7 x^3 + 8)^3$$
Look at your first factor:
[math]\left ( 7x^6 + 8 x^3 \right ) ^3 = ( x^3 ( 7 x^3 + 8 ) )^3 = (x^3)^3 (7 x^3 + 8 )^3[/math]

Don't worry. It's an easy mistake to make and a pain in the pahtootie to find when you check your work.

-Dan
 
yeah that was kinda behind the bushes...
 

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