Exponential function and chain rule - find derivative

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the derivative of the function f(x) = e^(3x^2+x) and evaluating it at x = 2. The subject area pertains to calculus, specifically the application of the chain rule and properties of exponential functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the chain rule to find the derivative and evaluates it at a specific point. Some participants question the accuracy of the numerical result obtained and suggest that the exact expression may differ from the approximation provided.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the derivative's value. There is acknowledgment of a discrepancy between the calculated approximation and the exact expression for f'(2). Guidance has been offered regarding the simplification of ln(e).

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing the implications of using approximations versus exact values in their calculations. There is also a note about the potential confusion arising from the use of ln(e) in the derivative expression.

pbonnie
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Homework Statement


If f(x) = e^{3x^2+x}, find f'(2)

Homework Equations


f'(x) = a^{g(x)}ln a g'(x)

The Attempt at a Solution


f'(x) = (e^{3x^2+x})(ln e)(6x+1)
f'(2) = (e^{3(2)^2+2})(ln e)(6(2)+1)
= 2115812.288

I was checking online and I'm seeing a different answer, but this is EXACTLY how my lesson is showing how to answer. Is this correct?
 
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pbonnie said:

Homework Statement


If f(x) = e^{3x^2+x}, find f'(2)


Homework Equations


f'(x) = a^{g(x)}ln a g'(x)


The Attempt at a Solution


f'(x) = (e^{3x^2+x})(ln e)(6x+1)
f'(2) = (e^{3(2)^2+2})(ln e)(6(2)+1)
= 2115812.288

I was checking online and I'm seeing a different answer, but this is EXACTLY how my lesson is showing how to answer. Is this correct?

Looks to me like you are getting 13*e^(14). That's ok. But it's not equal to 2115812.288. How did you get that?
 
Oh I'm not sure how I managed that. Thank you :)
 
The exact value of f'(2) is 13e14. If you use a calculator on this, the result is only an approximation.

BTW, there's no point in writing ln(e), since it is 1 (exactly).
 

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