Differentiation Troubleshooting: Solving for y = x * (x-1)^1/2

Thread starter aek
Start date Apr 16, 2005
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Differentiation

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on the differentiation of the function y = x * (x - 1)^(1/2). Users emphasize the importance of applying the product rule and chain rule correctly to arrive at the correct derivative. The correct answer, as derived by multiple users, is (2(x + 1) + x√(x + 1)) / (2(x + 1)). The conversation highlights the necessity of showing work to facilitate effective assistance and the common pitfalls in simplifying derivatives.

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Apr 18, 2005

quantumdude

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Good Lord. I had locked this thread, thinking that it had run its course and that any future posts would just be more bickering from aek. But I can see now that this thread is not over, because...

aek said:

\frac{2(x+1)+x\sqrt{x+1}}{2(x+1)}

This answer is wrong.

It took my 4 days without a proper answer on PhysicsForum.com, however, it took less than 12 hours on a different forum which i refuse you people to join. Your all geniuses, CLAP FOR THE HANDICAPS.

No, the correct answer was supplied by Dexter and Hurkyl, in posts 25 and 26, respectively.

My suggestion:

1. Ditch that other forum immediately.
2. Show your work from now on.

and oh yes:

3. Can the attitude.