Derivative with general exponential and logarithmic fuctions

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the derivative of the function f(x) = (((x^7)+3)((x^3)+2)) / (((x+3)^2)((x^6)+5)). The solution employs the logarithmic differentiation technique, utilizing the properties of natural logarithms to simplify the differentiation process. The final derivative is confirmed as correct by participants, highlighting the effectiveness of the logarithmic derivative method for complex functions. Additionally, a general formula for the derivative of a quotient of functions is presented, reinforcing the utility of this approach.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of logarithmic differentiation
  • Familiarity with the chain rule and product rule in calculus
  • Knowledge of natural logarithm properties
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of logarithmic differentiation in various contexts
  • Learn about the quotient rule for derivatives
  • Explore advanced calculus techniques for differentiating complex functions
  • Practice problems involving derivatives of products and quotients of functions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, mathematics educators, and anyone looking to enhance their understanding of differentiation techniques, particularly in complex functions.

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Homework Statement



f(x)=(((x^7)+3)((x^3)+2)) / (((x+3)^2)((x^6)+5))
Find f'(x)


Homework Equations



d/dx lnx = 1/x
d/dx ln(f(x)) = f'(x)/f(x)


The Attempt at a Solution



ln(f(x)) = ln((x^7)+3) + ln((x^3)+2) - ln((x+3)^2) - ln ((x^6)+5)
f'(x)/f(x) = (7x^6)/((x^7)+3) + (3x^2)/((x^3)+2) - (2)/(x+3) - (6x^5)/((x^6)+5)

f'(x) = [(((x^7)+3)((x^3)+2)) / (((x+3)^2)((x^6)+5))]*[(7x^6)/((x^7)+3) + (3x^2)/((x^3)+2) - (2)/(x+3) - (6x^5)/((x^6)+5)]

My answer may be correct - just wanting someone to give it a quick check.

I know it looks terrible just to even look at. If someone could please show me where/how to use better syntax I would greatly appreciate it. I'll even rewrite the problem so that it'll look more friendly :P
 
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Hmm I missed out on this thread before, but actually that's a nice trick that I hadn't heard / thought of before.
Actually this makes it very easy to prove that in general, the derivative of
[tex]\phi(x) = \frac{f g}{h k}[/tex]
(with f, g, h, k functions of x) is
[tex]\phi' = \frac{f' g}{h k} + \frac{f g'}{h k} - \frac{f g}{h^2 k} h' - \frac{f g}{h k^2} k'[/tex]

(And yes, your answer is correct)
 
It's just a fairly standard application of the logarithmic derivative. And yes, the answer is correct.
 

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