SUMMARY
The sixth derivative of the function f(x) = sin(x^2) at x = 0 can be computed using the Maclaurin series expansion. The Maclaurin series for sin(x) is modified by substituting x with x^2, resulting in the series: x^2 - x^6/3! + x^10/5!. The relevant non-zero terms are x^2 and -x^6/3!, indicating that the sixth derivative at x = 0 is -1/3! or -1/6. Understanding the coefficients of the series is crucial for accurate computation.
PREREQUISITES
- Maclaurin series expansion
- Understanding of Taylor series
- Basic calculus concepts, including derivatives
- Knowledge of factorial notation and its application in series
NEXT STEPS
- Study the derivation of the Maclaurin series for sin(x)
- Learn about Taylor series and their applications in calculus
- Explore higher-order derivatives and their significance in polynomial approximations
- Practice computing derivatives of other trigonometric functions using series expansions
USEFUL FOR
Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on series expansions and derivatives, as well as educators teaching these concepts in mathematics courses.