Derivatives of natural logarithmic functions

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the derivatives of natural logarithmic functions, specifically the function f(x) = ln((12x-5)/(9x-2)). The correct derivative is f'(x) = (4/3)(1/ln(10))(9x-2)/(12x-5), emphasizing the importance of using the natural logarithm base e. Participants highlight the necessity of applying the chain rule and the properties of logarithms, such as ln(a/b) = ln(a) - ln(b), to derive the function accurately. Two methods for differentiation are confirmed: using the chain rule and applying logarithmic properties.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of natural logarithms and their properties
  • Familiarity with differentiation rules, including the chain rule
  • Knowledge of logarithmic identities, specifically ln(a/b) = ln(a) - ln(b)
  • Basic calculus concepts, particularly derivatives of functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the chain rule in calculus
  • Learn about the properties of logarithms, including change of base
  • Explore advanced differentiation techniques for composite functions
  • Practice solving derivatives of logarithmic functions with various bases
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those studying calculus and logarithmic functions, as well as educators looking for clarification on differentiation techniques.

fr33pl4gu3
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f(x) = ln (12x-5/9x-2)

f'(x) = (4/3) (1/ln10)(9x-2/12x-5)

Is this correct??
 
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Instead of ln(10) you should put ln(base of the logarithm), in this case; ln(e) = 1. When deriving log(x) (base 10), you can rewrite to ln(x)/ln(10). ln(10) is just a constant, so the derivative of this is 1/ln(10) * 1/x.

Also, I think you didn't do the chain rule quite right.
 
Then, is this
f(x) = ln (12x-5)
g(x) = ln (9x-2)
f'(x) = 12/12x-5
g'(x) = 9/9x-2

Correct??
 
Is this correct:

(12/12(ln9x-2)-5)-(9/9x-2)
 
Last edited:
fr33pl4gu3 said:
(12/12(ln9x-2)-5)-(9/9x-2)
This should not have ln inside. What is d/dx ln(12x-5) ? You've got it from above, just put it into this one.
 
I have the feeling you are guessing more than working systematically. Actually there are two ways to solve this. One is by using the chain rule:
set y = (12x - 5) / (9x - 2). Then the derivative of ln(y) is 1/y . dy/dx.

The other way is to first use ln(a/b) = ln(a) - ln(b) and then use the sum rule to differentiate (you still need the chain rule!).
 

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