Derivatives: Product Rule for y=4-x^2sinx

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the derivative of the function y = 4 - x²sin(x). Participants are exploring the application of the product rule in calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants question the correct interpretation of the function, considering whether it is 4 - (x²sin(x)) or ((4-x)²sin(x)). There is mention of needing the product rule and possibly the chain rule for differentiation.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively discussing the application of the product rule and clarifying the function's structure. Some guidance has been provided regarding the derivatives of the components involved, although there is no explicit consensus on the interpretation of the function.

Contextual Notes

One participant notes a lack of understanding regarding the product rule, indicating that further clarification may be necessary. The discussion reflects an ongoing exploration of the rules of differentiation without reaching a definitive conclusion.

JimmyA
Messages
2
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


find the dy/dx of y= 4- x (to the 2nd power) sin x


Homework Equations


is there a rule?


The Attempt at a Solution


nothing
 
Physics news on Phys.org


Is it 4 - (x^2*sin(x)) or ((4-x)^2 * sin(x))?

You will need the product rule for the first case, or for the second case a combination of the product rule and the chain rule.

Product rule: f'(x) * g(x) + g'(x) * f(x)
Chain rule: f'(g(x)) * g'(x)
 


Ok, per the visitor message I got from you..you don't understand how to use the product rule.

Use the following information:
Let f(x) = x^2 and g(x) = sin(x). The derivative of sin(x) is cos(x) - memorize this. Use the power rule for the derivative of x^2.

f'(x) refers to the derivative of f(x), and g'(x) refers to the derivative of g(x). You should now be able to use the product rule to calculate the derivative.

If you need more help someone else will have to help you, I have to leave now.
 


thank you very much
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
3K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K