Derivative of y(x)=sin x: \cos x

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The discussion focuses on finding the derivative of y(x) = sin x using the limit definition. The user attempts to calculate the derivative by applying the limit of the difference quotient and substituting the sine addition formula. They express confusion about the limits of sinh/h and (cosh-1)/h as h approaches 0, indicating that the definitions of sine and cosine may affect the outcome. Participants are prompted to clarify which definitions are being used to resolve the limits. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding foundational concepts in calculus for accurate derivative computation.
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I am studying this from a book I found online, and I need a little bit of help.

Homework Statement


Find the derivative when y(x)=\sin x

The Attempt at a Solution



\frac{dy}{dx} \ = \ limit \ of \ \frac {\Delta y}{\Delta x} \ = \ \lim h \rightarrow 0 \ \frac{\sin(x+h)-\sin x}{h}

\sin(x+h)=\sin x \cos h + \cos x \sin h

\frac{\Delta y}{\Delta x} \ = \ \frac {\sin x \cos h + \cos x \sin h-\sin x}{h} \ = \ \sin x ( \frac{\cos h-1}{h}) + \cos x (\frac{\sin h}{h})
 
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now take the limit as h→0, what does sinh/h tend to? and what does (cosh-1)/h tend to?
 
Strictly speaking, how you do that depends upon what your definitions of "sine" and "cosine" are- and there are several possible. What definitions are you using?
 
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