Derivative of Arctan Function with a Rational Expression

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the derivative of the arctan function, specifically exploring its mathematical derivation and related concepts. Participants engage in both technical reasoning and clarification of related principles.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states that the derivative of arctan(x) is 1/(x^2 + 1).
  • Another participant confirms this derivative and suggests looking up common derivatives for reference.
  • A participant provides a detailed derivation using implicit differentiation, leading to the expression 1/(1 + x^2) through a geometric interpretation involving a right triangle.
  • Another participant presents a similar derivation using secant, arriving at the same result of 1/(x^2 + 1).
  • There is a discussion about the inclusion of a constant of integration (C) in the context of differentiation, with some participants questioning its relevance.
  • One participant expresses confusion regarding the need for a constant in differentiation, while others clarify that it is not typically included.
  • A participant acknowledges a misunderstanding related to integration and differentiation, indicating a mix-up in concepts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

While there is general agreement on the derivative of arctan(x) being 1/(x^2 + 1), there is disagreement regarding the necessity of including a constant of integration in the context of differentiation. The discussion remains unresolved on this point.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the application of constants in differentiation versus integration, indicating a potential gap in foundational knowledge that is not fully addressed.

afcwestwarrior
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1/(x^2+1)
 
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Yes.
 
ok thanks
 
You can look up a list of derivatives and integrals of common functions on wikipedia or on google. But suppose you had to prove this by hand:

Let

y = arctan(x) \rightarrow tan(y) = x

Now use implicit differentiation to get

\frac{y'}{cos^{2}(y)} = 1 \rightarrow y' = cos^{2}(y) = cos^{2}(arctan(x))

Now draw your triangle to figure out what that expression becomes.

Note that you would do that by saying opp/adj = x so let opp = x and adj = 1 which means hyp = sqrt(1 + x^2), now since we need cosine = adj/hyp = 1/sqrt(1 + x^2) however since we have cosine^2, that gets rid of the sqrt( ) and you are left with 1/(1 + x^2). Hope this helped
 
Or note that as NoMoreExams had y = arctan(x) \Rightarrow tan(y) = x. Now the derivative is sec^2(y)y' = 1 \Rightarrow y' = \frac{1}{sec^{2}(y)} = \frac{1}{tan^2(y)+1} = \frac{1}{x^2 + 1}.
 
afcwestwarrior said:
1/(x^2+1)

nicksauce said:
Yes.
Strictly speaking it is 1/(x2+ 1)+ C
 
HallsofIvy said:
Strictly speaking it is 1/(x2+ 1)+ C

Why do you need the constant for differentiation? Wouldn't that introduce the variable again when integrating back?
 
HallsofIvy said:
Strictly speaking it is 1/(x2+ 1)+ C

I've never heard of the constant of differentiation.
 
where there are no borders to the integral we are solving we use +C

but when we use a derivative i don't think we use +C
 
  • #10
HallsofIvy said:
Strictly speaking it is 1/(x2+ 1)+ C

Halls, you're kidding, aren't you?
 
  • #11
thanks it turned out tan^-1=arctan
 
  • #12
this equivalent to the fact that the derivative of tan is sec^2 = 1 + tan^2.

i.e. tan' = 1 + tan^2 implies the deriv of tan^-1 is 1/1+x^2.
 
  • #13
Ooops! You are right. I was thinking integration. There goes me trying to be a smarthmouth again!
 

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