Finding the Second Derivative of a Trigonometric Function

In summary, the derivative of a trigonometric function is the rate of change of the function at a specific point. To find the derivative, one must use the rules of differentiation and trigonometric identities. The most common trigonometric functions are sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, secant, and cosecant. Derivatives of trigonometric functions are important in many real-world applications and help us analyze their behavior. An example of finding the derivative is finding the derivative of y = sin(x) using the power rule to get y' = cos(x).
  • #1
cheezeitz
8
0

Homework Statement



y' = csc2([tex]\vartheta[/tex] / 2 )
Find y"



The Attempt at a Solution



So far, i have 2 csc ([tex]\vartheta[/tex]/2) *csc([tex]\vartheta[/tex]/2)cot([tex]\vartheta[/tex]/2) * 1/2

but I'm wondering, how do you take the derivative of a half angle identity?
or does it just simplify down to csc2([tex]\vartheta[/tex] / 2) * cot([tex]\vartheta[/tex]/2)
 
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  • #2
You don't need to worry about derivatives of half-angle identities here. You're right about how it simplifies, and you used the chain rule properly, except you're missing a minus sign (the derivative of csc(x) is -csc(x)cot(x)).
 

1. What is the derivative of a trigonometric function?

The derivative of a trigonometric function is the rate of change of the function at a specific point. It measures how much the function is changing at that point.

2. How do you find the derivative of a trigonometric function?

To find the derivative of a trigonometric function, you need to use the rules of differentiation, which involve taking the limit of the function as the change in x approaches zero. You can also use trigonometric identities and the chain rule to simplify the process.

3. What are the common trigonometric functions?

The most common trigonometric functions are sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, secant, and cosecant. These functions are used to describe the relationships between the sides and angles of a right triangle.

4. Why are derivatives of trigonometric functions important?

Derivatives of trigonometric functions are important because they are used in many real-world applications, such as physics, engineering, and economics. They also help us analyze the behavior of trigonometric functions and understand their properties.

5. Can you provide an example of finding the derivative of a trigonometric function?

Yes, an example of finding the derivative of a trigonometric function would be finding the derivative of y = sin(x). Using the rules of differentiation, we can rewrite this as y = (sin(x))^1, and then use the power rule to get y' = 1*cos(x) = cos(x).

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