Derivatives. Product rule with 3 products

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on applying the product rule in calculus to differentiate the function f(x) = (3x)(sin x)(cos x). Participants confirm that when differentiating three products, one should apply the product rule iteratively. The correct formula for the derivative is given as \(\frac{d}{dx}(UVW) = UV\frac{dW}{dx} + UW\frac{dV}{dx} + VW\frac{dU}{dx}\). Users emphasize the importance of careful notation and simplification in obtaining the correct answer.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the product rule in calculus
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions (sin x, cos x)
  • Basic differentiation techniques
  • Knowledge of notation used in calculus
NEXT STEPS
  • Practice differentiating functions with multiple products using the product rule
  • Explore advanced differentiation techniques, such as the quotient rule and chain rule
  • Learn about simplification techniques in calculus to improve accuracy
  • Study applications of derivatives in real-world problems
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Students studying calculus, educators teaching differentiation techniques, and anyone looking to improve their understanding of the product rule in calculus.

EvilBunny
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Homework Statement



If f(x) = (3 x )(sin x) (cos x), find f'( x ).


A question I have is , is there anything special to do when you have 3 products instead of 2



The Attempt at a Solution



Well I used the product rule as if am multipling

(3xsinx) (cosx)

but that doesn't seem to get me the answer or maybe Its something about my answer because I put answers in a computer so sometimes its the notation.

here is my final answer
3sin(x)+cos(x)*3x*cos(x)-sin(x)(3x)sin(x)
 
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well for 3 products...just take take the product of 2 terms and multiply by the differential of the of the 3rd term...if you don't get it

\frac{d}{dx}(UVW)=UV\frac{dW}{dx}+UW\frac{dV}{dx}+VW\frac{dU}{dx}
 
K managed to get it off of that thx
 
although the equation above is impressive and simple. I hate to learn yet another differentiation rule. your initial approach is correct.

(3xsinx) (cosx) = [(3x sinx) (-sin x)]+ [first ' * (cosx)]

the same old (first * second ') + (first ' * second) product rule.

now take derivative of (3x * sin x) with the product rule and plug it in where first' goes.

your computer probably does a better job of simplification than u :)
 
Last edited:

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