Differentiating a trig function

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on differentiating the function y = sin(3x) cos(6x) using the product rule for derivatives. The correct application of the product rule is highlighted, specifically the need to apply the chain rule for the derivatives of the sine and cosine functions. The correct derivative is derived as dy/dx = (3cos(3x)cos(6x)) + (6sin(6x)sin(3x)). Missteps in the initial attempts included incorrect application of the chain rule and misunderstanding of trigonometric identities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the product rule in calculus
  • Knowledge of the chain rule for differentiation
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions and their derivatives
  • Basic understanding of trigonometric identities
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the product rule in calculus with examples
  • Learn about the chain rule and its applications in differentiation
  • Review the derivatives of trigonometric functions, specifically sin(ax) and cos(ax)
  • Explore trigonometric identities and their use in simplifying expressions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those learning about differentiation of trigonometric functions, and educators looking for examples of common mistakes in applying the product rule.

steve snash
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Homework Statement


Find dy/dx, given
y = sin( 3 x ) cos( 6 x )

Homework Equations


product rule= f'g+g'f

The Attempt at a Solution


I used the product rule and got this, but its supposedly wrong, what have i done wrong?((3*cos(x))*(6*cos(x)))+((6*sin(-x))*(3*sin(x)))
 
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For starters, \frac{d}{dx}\sin(3x)=3\cos(3x)\neq3\cos(x)
 
Here's a general rule that may help you figure it out:

\frac{d}{dx}(sin(ax)) = a \times cos(ax)
 
cheers
 
wtf, it still says its wrong,
((3*cos(3*x))*(6*cos(6*x)))+((6*sin(-6*x))*(3*sin(3*x)))
what am i still doing wrong?
 
Where are the extra factors of 6 in your first term and 3 in your second term coming from?
 
sorry i ment
((3*cos(3*x))*(cos(6*x)))+((6*sin(-6*x))*(sin(3*x)))
but its still wrong, can you simplify this?
 
For starters, \sin(-6x)=-\sin(6x)...can you think of a trig identity that involves something like \cos(a)\cos(b)-\sin(a)\sin(b)?:wink:
 

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