Find the equation of the tangent line of the curve

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the equation of the tangent line to the curve defined by the equation \(xy^2 + \frac{2}{y} = 4\) at the point (2,1). The correct tangent line equation is \(y - 1 = -\frac{1}{2}(x - 2)\). Participants analyze the implicit differentiation process, identifying errors in applying the product and chain rules, particularly in the differentiation of \(xy^2\) and \(\frac{2}{y}\). The conversation emphasizes the importance of mastering basic derivative rules to solve implicit differentiation problems accurately.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of implicit differentiation
  • Familiarity with the product rule and chain rule in calculus
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions involving derivatives
  • Knowledge of basic calculus concepts such as slopes and tangent lines
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the product rule in differentiation
  • Learn about the chain rule and its use in implicit differentiation
  • Practice problems involving tangent lines and slopes of curves
  • Explore resources like Schaum's Outline series for calculus to reinforce learning
USEFUL FOR

Students learning calculus, particularly those struggling with implicit differentiation, as well as educators looking for examples of common mistakes in derivative calculations.

  • #31
Alright, well I just got both. Can't hurt to have more.
 
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  • #32
Schaus said:
So I got the wrong one? Crap
I don't know.
 
  • #33
Schaus said:
I learn more easily from seeing something done.
Certainly it's easier to understand a problem by seeing a solution to it, but I don't necessarily believe that you're actually learning much of anything. A good textbook will have plenty of examples, but the learning comes when you actually do the work for a problem. Part of the learning process is in making false starts and going along branches that don't lead anywhere. This thread is (I hope) a good example of what I'm talking about.
 

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