Differentiating with respect to

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The discussion focuses on differentiating the function z/(2x + y) with respect to x. The correct answer is -2z/(2x + y)^2, assuming z and y are constants with respect to x. If z and y are not constants but functions of x, the chain rule should be applied instead. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing whether variables are constant or functions when differentiating. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurate differentiation in calculus.
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differentiating with respect to...

I have a question on differentiating the function z/(2x + y) with respect to x.

Is the answer -2z/(2x + y)^2 ?

Thanks:smile:
 
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yes absolutely right... z and y are constant with respect to x
 
The other way arround actually, if z and y are constant wrt x, then your answer (the partial derivative of the function wrt x) is right :smile:
 
If z and y are NOT "constant with respect to x", but are functions of x, then you would use the chain rule.
 

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