Derivatives of exponentials (calc II)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the differentiation of exponential functions, specifically focusing on the application of the chain rule in calculus. The original poster presents a problem involving the derivative of an exponential function with a polynomial exponent.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to differentiate the function \( e^{ax^{3}} \) and seeks validation of their application of the chain rule. They express uncertainty about the treatment of the constant "a". Another participant confirms the correctness of the differentiation process. The original poster then presents a new problem involving \( e^{tsin(2t)} \) and questions the accuracy of their approach, leading to a clarification about a missing term.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes confirmations of correctness for the first derivative attempt, while the second attempt is met with a suggestion for correction. Participants are engaged in verifying and clarifying each other's reasoning without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

There is an assumption regarding the constant "a" in the first problem, as the textbook does not specify its nature. Additionally, the original poster acknowledges a typographical error in their second attempt, which affects the accuracy of their solution.

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Homework Statement


[tex]\frac{d}{dx}e^{ax^{3}}[/tex]

I'm simply trying to determine whether or not I am doing these correctly and applying the chain rule properly.

Homework Equations


Chain rule et al.

The Attempt at a Solution



[itex]\frac{d}{dx}e^{ax^{3}}[/itex]

[itex]e^{ax^{3}}\frac{d}{dx}ax^{3}[/itex]

[itex]e^{ax^{3}}a(3)x^{2}[/itex]

[itex]3ae^{ax^{3}}x^{2}[/itex]

Does that look right to you? I am assuming "a" is just some constant, the book does not specify.
 
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Looks fine.
 
QuarkCharmer said:
Does that look right to you? I am assuming "a" is just some constant, the book does not specify.

Yes, this is correct. If you'd like proof take a look at (http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=derivative+of+e^%28ax^3%29). "wolframalpha.com"[/URL] is a very good resource for checking your answers. Good luck!
 
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Okay great!

How about this one?

[itex]\frac{d}{dt}e^{tsin(2t)}[/itex]

[itex]e^{tsin(2t)}\frac{d}{dt}tsin(2t)[/itex]

[itex]e^{tsin(2t)}[sin(2t)+2cos(2t)][/itex]
 
Almost. The last term isn't correct.
 
Oh I think I just didn't type the "t". It's on my paper.

[itex]e^{tsin(2t)}[sin(2t)+2tcos(2t)][/itex]

Better?
 
Ayuh.
 
Thanks a bunch!
 

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