Differentiation Of Inverse Function

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on differentiating the inverse function of \( y = \frac{1}{a}\tan^{-1}\left(\frac{x}{a}\right) \). The user initially derived the expression for \(\frac{dy}{dx}\) as \(\frac{1}{a \sec^2(ay)}\) but encountered an error in reaching the final answer. The correct differentiation leads to the result \(\frac{1}{a^2 + x^2}\), indicating a misunderstanding in the application of the chain rule and trigonometric identities during differentiation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of inverse trigonometric functions
  • Proficiency in differentiation techniques, particularly the chain rule
  • Familiarity with trigonometric identities, especially secant and tangent functions
  • Knowledge of algebraic manipulation involving fractions and variables
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the chain rule in calculus for differentiating composite functions
  • Study the properties and derivatives of inverse trigonometric functions
  • Learn about trigonometric identities, focusing on secant and tangent relationships
  • Practice problems involving differentiation of inverse functions to solidify understanding
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Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on differentiation techniques, and educators looking for examples of common mistakes in inverse function differentiation.

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Homework Statement


\frac{\mathrm{d}\left(\frac{1}{a}\tan ^{-1} \left(\frac{x}{a}\right)\right)}{\mathrm{d}x}2. The attempt at a solution
Let y = \frac{1}{a}\tan ^{-1} \left(\frac{x}{a}\right)
\therefore x = a \tan \left(ay\right)
Differentiate with respect to x \rightarrow 1 = a \sec ^2 \left(ay\right) \frac{\mathm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x}
\therefore \frac{\mathm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} = \frac{1}{a \sec ^2 \left(ay\right)} = \frac{1}{a \tan ^2 \left(ay\right) + a}
x = a \tan \left(ay\right) \therefore \frac{1}{a \tan ^2 \left(ay\right) + a} = \frac{1}{\left(a \tan \left(ay\right)\right)^2 + a} = \frac{1}{x^2 + a}3. The problem I encountered
However, thee answer is incorrect. The correct answer is:
= \frac{1}{a^2+x^2}
Where have I gone wrong?
 
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x=a tan(ay)
1= a sec^2(ay) d(ay)/dx
 

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