Evaluate dy/dt for each of the following

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating dy/dt for the implicit equation xy - 5x + 2y^3 = -70, given specific values for dx/dt, x, and y. The problem involves understanding the application of the product rule and implicit differentiation in the context of functions of a variable t.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the correct application of the product rule for differentiating the term xy, questioning the differentiation of the entire equation with respect to t. There is an exploration of how to properly apply implicit differentiation to the terms involved.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in clarifying the differentiation process, with some providing corrections to earlier attempts. There is a recognition of the need to differentiate all terms correctly with respect to t, and guidance has been offered regarding the proper form of the product rule.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the differentiation process and the implications of treating x and y as functions of t. There is an acknowledgment of potential errors in previous attempts at differentiation.

staples82
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Homework Statement


Assume x and y are functions of t. Evaluate dy/dt for each of the following.

xy-5x+2y^3=-70, dx/dt=-5 x=2 y=-3

Homework Equations


n/a


The Attempt at a Solution


I used x' and y' for dx/dt and dy/dt

I found the derivative of the equation, using the product rule for xy

(x)(yy')+(y)(xx')-5+6y^2=0

From here, my problem was figuring out how to simplify the equation...
(x)(yy')=5-6y^2-yxx'
y'=

The answer was -5/7...I'm pretty sure I messed up on solving the equation for 0 and y'
 
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staples82 said:

Homework Statement


Assume x and y are functions of t. Evaluate dy/dt for each of the following.

xy-5x+2y^3=-70, dx/dt=-5 x=2 y=-3

...

I found the derivative of the equation, using the product rule for xy

(x)(yy')+(y)(xx')-5+6y^2=0


This is not differentiated correctly with respect to the third variable. When dealing with the product rule for the xy term, think of x and y as if both were functions of t. This would have to be

d/dt (xy) = (dx/dt)·y + x·(dy/dt),

or x'y + xy' , as you have been writing it. By the same token, the next term would have the derivative -5x' .

Keep in mind that you are not differentiating with respect to x, as you were in your other implicit differentiation problems, but with respect to a variable whichi is not directly (we say "explicitly") represented in the original equation.
 
So I messed up my product rule of xy then?
 
Yeah I believe so. What is the derivative of xy with respect to t?
 
wouldn't it be: x(dy/dt)+y(dx/dt) for the derivative of xy
 
staples82 said:
wouldn't it be: x(dy/dt)+y(dx/dt) for the derivative of xy

That's correct (and is mentioned in post #2). You need to differentiate the remaining terms on the left-hand side of the original equation in the same fashion. So d/dt (5x) and d/dt (2y^3) are not simply 5 and 6y^2, but...?
 

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