Easy Derivative - Not easy for me, though

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the derivative of the function x^(2sinx). Participants are exploring the complexities of differentiating a variable base raised to a variable exponent.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts implicit differentiation due to the variable base and exponent. Some participants suggest substituting t = 2 sin x to simplify the differentiation process. Others express uncertainty about the correctness of the provided answer and question the method used to arrive at it.

Discussion Status

There are differing opinions on the correctness of the original answer. Some participants confirm their results align with the original poster's calculations, while others express confidence in their own answers, suggesting that the provided 'correct' answer may be flawed. The discussion is active with participants sharing their reasoning and checking each other's work.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the challenges of differentiating functions where both the base and exponent are variable, and there is mention of potential confusion regarding the application of differentiation rules for constant bases versus variable bases.

fiziksfun
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1. Derivate x^(2sinx)


3. I used implicit differentiation because there's an x in the base and in the exponent.
I have all of my work in the picture (if you can't see it in the attachment):

http://i12.tinypic.com/7x1sn44.jpg


I don't get the same answer as the correct answer which is 2cosx(x^2sinx), and I can't figure out why!

Am I doing something wrong, or is it possible the answer is wrong !?
 

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Try substituting t = 2 sin x and you will get x^t where t(x). Differentiate x^t. What are you going to do if you get any t':s in your equation?
 
i'm getting the same answer as you
 
ya i just i checked my answer using a graph - its right and the other answer is wrong - thanks!
 
anytime :-]
 
fiziksfun said:
ya i just i checked my answer using a graph - its right and the other answer is wrong - thanks!

Whoever provided the 'correct' answer just treated it like d/dx (a^u), which only works for a constant a > 0. When the base of the exponential function is itself a variable or function, logarithmic differentiation is called for, which is what you did. (I sure hope that wasn't a TA or instructor who wrote that 'answer'...)
 

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