Derivative of P(t) for Equilibrium Point Problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the derivative of the function P(t) = 1/((ab^t)+(1/c)), particularly in the context of equilibrium points. Participants are exploring the mathematical implications of differentiating this function with respect to time, t.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to clarify the differentiation process and the variables involved. Questions about the specific variable with respect to which the differentiation is being performed are raised. There are discussions on rewriting the function in different forms to facilitate differentiation.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with some participants providing insights into the differentiation process and others seeking clarification on the setup of the problem. There appears to be a collaborative effort to understand the function's structure and its derivative.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of constants a, b, and c, which are assumed to be fixed, and the need to differentiate a function that involves an exponential term. The original poster expresses confusion about the problem, indicating a potential gap in understanding the underlying concepts.

pyrosilver
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Homework Statement


I was sick today, and here is what my friend told me. I don't quite understand the question, but apparently we talked about equilibrium points, and for homework, we have to take the derivative of P(t)= 1/((ab^t)+(1/c)), put it in terms of P, and get P'(t)=(P-6)(-k)P.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I'm utterly confused on how to do this.
 
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what are you differentiating with respect to?
 
pyrosilver said:
derivative of P(t)= 1/((ab^t)+(1/c))


well it is in respect to t so if you can find the derivative of b^t than it is -(a(derivative of b^t))/((ab^t)+(1/c))^2 ... assuming that a, b and c are all constants
 
So
P(t)= ((ab)^t+ (1/c))^{-1}

Can you differentiate that with respect to t?

It will help to notice that since
P(t)= ((ab)^t+ (1/c))^{-1}
1/P= (ab)^t+ 1/c so that (ab)^t= 1/P- 1/c
 
almost ... it is a(b)^t otherwise agree with that.
 
No, it is (ab)^t, I forgot to specify the a and b going together.

Thanks HallsofIvy! Very helpful :)
 

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