Derivative of an inverse function

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The discussion centers on the integral of the function involving the inverse secant, specifically addressing why the condition for x < -1 uses sec^{-1}(-x) + C_2. The derivative of the inverse secant is explored, highlighting that it remains positive across its domain. The continuity relationship sec^{-1}(-x) = π - sec^{-1}(x) is noted, leading to the conclusion that the integral must account for the negative values of x. The transition from (-x) to |(-x)| in the denominator is justified since x is negative, making |(-x)| positive. Understanding these relationships clarifies the behavior of the integral across different intervals.
Karol
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Homework Statement


$$\int\frac{dx}{x\sqrt{x^2-1}}=\left\{ \begin{array} {lc} \sec^{-1}(x)+C_1 & {\rm if}~x>1 \\ \sec^{-1}(-x)+C_2 & {\rm if}~x<-1 \end{array} \right.$$
Why the second condition ##\sec^{-1}(-x)+C_2~~{\rm if}~x<-1## ?
Snap1.jpg


Homework Equations


Derivative of inverse secant:
$$(\sec^{-1}(x))'=\frac{1}{x(\pm\sqrt{x^2-1})}$$

The Attempt at a Solution


The derivative is positive from -∞ to +∞ (the green lines). as i understand i have to make the function ##\sec^{-1}(-x)## positive when x<-1, but if ##y=\sec^{-1}(x)## is defined like in the drawing it is positive alsways
 
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Continuity: ##\sec^{-1}(-x)=\pi-\sec^{-1}(x)## so:
$$\int\frac{dx}{x\sqrt{x^2-1}}=\left\{ \begin{array} {lc} \sec^{-1}(x)+C_1 & {\rm if}~x>1 \\ -\sec^{-1}(x)+C_2 & {\rm if}~x<-1 \end{array} \right.$$
But that gives a negative derivative, if i substitute x<-1 in:
$$\frac{dx}{x\sqrt{x^2-1}}$$
Snap1.jpg
 
If ##x<-1##, then
$$\frac{dx}{x\sqrt{x^2-1}}= \frac{d(-x)}{(-x)\sqrt{(-x)^2-1}} = \frac{d(-x)}{\lvert (-x)\rvert \sqrt{(-x)^2-1}} = d[\sec(-x)]$$
 
I don't understand the transition:
$$\frac{d(-x)}{(-x)\sqrt{(-x)^2-1}} = \frac{d(-x)}{\lvert (-x)\rvert \sqrt{(-x)^2-1}}$$
Why did (-x) in the denominator became |(-x)|? why is it allowed?
 
##x## is negative, no?
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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