Derivative of f(x)=(2(x^2+1)^1/2)/(x-1) | Simplification Rules

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SUMMARY

The derivative of the function f(x)=(2(x^2+1)^(1/2))/(x-1) is confirmed to be f'(x)=(-2(x+1))/((x-1)^2√(x^2+1)). The initial confusion arose from a misinterpretation of the simplification process, particularly regarding the common denominator. The correct simplification involves recognizing that the factor of 1/2 should be adjusted to 1 during the calculation. This clarification ensures accurate derivative representation and aids in further analysis of the function's behavior.

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Homework Statement


Sketch the graph of the function f(x)=(2(x^2+1)^1/2)/(x-1)


Homework Equations


All the derivative simplification rules



The Attempt at a Solution


The only part of the question I need help with here is finding the derivative of this function. In my book it says the derivative is f'(x)=(-3(x+1))/((x-1)^2(x^2+1)^1/2), but all I can get is f'(x)=(2x(x-1)-2(x^2+1)^1/2)/((x-1)^2(x^2+1)^1/2). I don't know how to go about simplifying this any further. Any help on this would be greatly appreicated, as I have a similar question like this in my homework questions. Thanks in advance.
 
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Either the book is wrong or you have a typo, as the 3 should be a 2. The derivative is
f'(x) = \frac{-2(x+1)}{(x-1)^2 \sqrt{x^2+1}}

It looks like you did the derivative correctly, except that the first 1/2 you encounter when reading your solution should be a 1. This comes from when you found the common denominator, and you will be able to further simplify the derivative after this change.
 

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