Differentiate x^2-(3x+1)/(x+2)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the correct differentiation of the function y(x) = x^2 - (3x + 1)/(x + 2). Users emphasize the importance of using LaTeX for clarity in mathematical expressions, recommending the format y(x) = x^2 - \frac{3x + 1}{x + 2} for proper representation. The derivative is correctly stated as \frac{dy(x)}{dx} = 2x - \frac{5}{(x + 2)^2}. Participants advise against ambiguous notation, highlighting the necessity of parentheses to avoid misinterpretation.

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Homework Statement
To be differentiated: x^2-3x+1/x+2
Relevant Equations
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Is this correct?
 
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Yes
 
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Likes   Reactions: berkeman
Looks okay to me. Your handwriting of the math is a little hard for me to read, but it seems correct.

BTW, there is a good LaTeX tutorial at the top of the page under INFO/Help (and in the lower left of the edit window below). We encourage all users to use LaTeX when posting math at the PF, since it is so much easier for folks to read and respond to. For example, I think this is your problem and your final solution (you can use the Reply button to see how LaTeX was used to generate the equations):

y(x) = x^2 - \frac{3x+1}{x+2}
\frac{dy(x)}{dx} = 2x - \frac{5}{(x+2)^2}
 
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Likes   Reactions: benorin
To be differentiated: x^2-3x+1/x+2
Don't write it this way. What you wrote would be interpreted to mean this:
##x^2 - 3x + \frac 1 x + 2##, which I'm sure isn't what you meant.
If you write a fraction using inline text, but sure to add parentheses whenever the numerator and/or denominator have multiple terms. You example should be written like this: x^2 - (3x + 1)/(x + 2).

Better yet, like this using TeX: ##x^2 - \frac{3x + 1}{x + 2}##
 
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Likes   Reactions: FactChecker
Use parentheses whenever it would help to clarify how much is in the numerator and how much is in the denominator. Parentheses are free.
 

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