Find the derivative of function with respect to x

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the derivative of the function y = sin-1((x-1)/(x+1)). Participants clarify that the original function is arcsin, not sin, which significantly affects the derivative calculation. The correct derivative is established as 1/(√x(x+1)). Additionally, the importance of proper bracket placement in mathematical expressions is emphasized to avoid confusion in calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of inverse trigonometric functions, specifically arcsin
  • Familiarity with differentiation rules, including the chain rule
  • Knowledge of algebraic manipulation, particularly with fractions
  • Basic calculus concepts, including derivatives and limits
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivative of inverse trigonometric functions, focusing on arcsin
  • Practice using the chain rule in differentiation with complex functions
  • Review algebraic manipulation techniques for simplifying expressions
  • Explore common pitfalls in calculus, particularly with function notation and operations
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those studying calculus, as well as educators looking to clarify concepts related to derivatives of inverse functions.

togo
Messages
106
Reaction score
0
Find the derivative of function with respect to x

y = sin^-1 (x-1/x+1)

Steps I took:
= sin(x-1/x+1)^-1
u = sin(x-1/x+1)
u' = cos u * u'
u = x-1/x+1
u' = t'b - tb'/b^2

t = x-1
b = x+1
t' = 1
b' = 1
b^2 = (x+1)(x+1) = x^2+2x+1
u' = (1)(x+1) - (x-1)(1)/x^2+2x+1
u' = x+1-x-1 / x^2+2x+1
u' = 0 !

how can it be zero? something has gone wrong here.

The answer to the question of 1/(x^(1/2) (x+1))

Thank you
 
Physics news on Phys.org
There are missing brackets: x-1/x+1 is ##x-\frac{1}{x}+1##. I think you mean (x-1)/(x+1), or ##\frac{x-1}{x+1}##.
u' = ((1)(x+1) - (x-1)(1))/(x^2+2x+1)
u' = (x+1-x-1) / (x^2+2x+1)
(I added brackets here)
This step is wrong, check the signs in the numerator.
 
Is the initial function sin or arcsin?

If it is arcsin, I don't think you have the correct derivative.
 
how would you tell the difference? (sin/arcsin)
 
togo said:
how would you tell the difference? (sin/arcsin)
sin-1 x is the same as arcsin x. I'm assuming that your original function is
y = sin^{-1}\left( \frac{x-1}{x+1} \right)
so that looks like arcsin. Of course, the derivative of arcsin is not cosine.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
Replies
26
Views
4K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
2K
  • · Replies 40 ·
2
Replies
40
Views
5K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K