Confused on these two derivative problems

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around two derivative problems involving the quotient rule and the application of logarithmic properties in differentiation. The first problem involves a function defined as a quotient, while the second problem involves an exponential function with a logarithmic factor.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the quotient rule for the first problem and express confusion about simplifying the resulting expression. Questions arise regarding the manipulation of the second problem, particularly about the introduction of the natural logarithm and the constant factor remaining unchanged during differentiation.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively exploring the reasoning behind their approaches and questioning the steps involved in the differentiation process. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of logarithmic properties and notation, but there is no explicit consensus on the solutions or methods.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of potential algebraic difficulties in simplifying expressions, as well as a need for clarity on basic logarithmic properties and differentiation rules. Participants are encouraged to consider notation and standard practices in expressing derivatives.

Niaboc67
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Homework Statement



a. k(t) = (sqrt(t+1))/(2t+1)b. y = (3^(x^2+1))(ln(2))

The Attempt at a Solution


For the first problem, I know I use the quotient rule for derivatives (L)(DH)-(H)(DL)/((L)^2)
which would go to: ((2t+1)(1/(2sqrt(t+1)) - (sqrt(t+1))(2))/((2t+1)^2) I get stuck here, maybe it's the algebra but I don't know how to factor all this down to get a solution.

For the second problem I was able to get the answer online but I don't understand the answer.
It goes:

y = (3^(x^2+1))(ln(2))
refine y = e^((ln(3))(x^2+1)) ln(2)
y' = [2xln(3)ln(2)]3^(x^2+1)

I don't understand where the e or ln(3) comes from. Or why it's put as an exponent. Also, why does the ln(2) stay stationary? Then e disappears as x^2+1 is broken into its derivative, the ln(3) comes down while 3^(x^2+1) is still put on the side. Could someone please explain this process works.

Thank you
 
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Niaboc67 said:
For the first problem, I know I use the quotient rule for derivatives (L)(DH)-(H)(DL)/((L)^2)
which would go to: ((2t+1)(1/(2sqrt(t+1)) - (sqrt(t+1))(2))/((2t+1)^2) I get stuck here, maybe it's the algebra but I don't know how to factor all this down to get a solution.
Take the LCM - it won't be simplified too much - but that's the way it's going to stay .
Niaboc67 said:
I don't understand where the e or ln(3) comes from. Or why it's put as an exponent.
This is just the manipulation of the original question in order to convert into terms which you can solve by chain rule . Do you know basic logarithmic properties ?
Niaboc67 said:
Also, why does the ln(2) stay stationary?
You're only raising 3x2+1 to e .
Niaboc67 said:
Then e disappears as x^2+1 is broken into its derivative, the ln(3) comes down while 3^(x^2+1) is still put on the side.
Do you know the chain rule ?

Hope this helps .
 
Niaboc67 said:

Homework Statement



a. k(t) = (sqrt(t+1))/(2t+1)b. y = (3^(x^2+1))(ln(2))

The Attempt at a Solution


For the first problem, I know I use the quotient rule for derivatives (L)(DH)-(H)(DL)/((L)^2)

A suggestion:

Rather than make up complicated expressions for derivatives, learn what notation is used normally and follow that:

y = f(x)

dy/dx = y' = f'(x) (use the ' to indicate differentiation w.r.t. x. The expression f'(x) is read, "f-prime of x".)

then, expressing the quotient rule in prime notation,

y = f(x) / g(x)

y' = (f(x)g'(x) - f'(x)g(x)) / [g(x)]2
 
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Niaboc67 said:

Homework Statement



a. k(t) = (sqrt(t+1))/(2t+1)b. y = (3^(x^2+1))(ln(2))

The Attempt at a Solution


For the first problem, I know I use the quotient rule for derivatives (L)(DH)-(H)(DL)/((L)^2)
which would go to: ((2t+1)(1/(2sqrt(t+1)) - (sqrt(t+1))(2))/((2t+1)^2) I get stuck here, maybe it's the algebra but I don't know how to factor all this down to get a solution.
When working problems involving taking derivatives, I find it easier to convert expressions like "sqrt (x)" or "√x " to exponential form, so that "sqrt(x) = √x = x1/2 ".
 
Niaboc67 said:
I don't understand where the e or ln(3) comes from. Or why it's put as an exponent. Also, why does the ln(2) stay stationary? Then e disappears as x^2+1 is broken into its derivative, the ln(3) comes down while 3^(x^2+1) is still put on the side. Could someone please explain this process works.

Thank you
You should know that a^x= e^{ln(a^x)}= e^{x ln(a)}. As result of that, the derivative of a^x is a^x ln(a) and the derivative of a^{f(x)} is f'(x)a^{f(x)} ln(a).
 

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