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

  • Thread starter Thread starter aek
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Differentiation
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the differentiation of the function y = x * (x-1)^(1/2). Participants express difficulties in obtaining the correct derivative as presented in their textbook, leading to a variety of approaches and interpretations of the problem.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants mention applying the product rule and chain rule, while others question the correctness of the original problem statement and the answers derived. There are requests for clarification on the work shown and the specific steps taken in differentiation.

Discussion Status

The conversation reflects a lack of consensus, with participants presenting differing answers and interpretations. Some express frustration over the lack of clear guidance, while others emphasize the importance of showing work to identify potential mistakes.

Contextual Notes

Participants note inconsistencies in the problem statement and the answers provided, leading to confusion. There is an ongoing debate about the simplification of derivatives and the accuracy of the textbook's answer.

  • #31
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.
 

Similar threads

Differential Equation of a Pendulum
  • · Replies 32 ·
2
Replies
32
Views
2K
How to parametrize motion of a pendulum in terms of Cartesian coordinates?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Solving for x in 0 = -1/8 + 3/8 x / (10^2 +x^2)^0.5
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
The gravitating of a small mass towards a big mass
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
A particle moving in a parabolic path in the ##x-y## plane
  • · Replies 40 ·
2
Replies
40
Views
2K
Temperature dependence of resistance
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
Tension in a string connecting two blocks having equal and opposite velocities
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
1K
How to find the equilibrium position of three masses (two of them fixed)?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Confused about kinematic equations
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
3K
Projectile Motion Problem Involving Initial Velocity and Gravity Only
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K