Find the Tangent of y=1/(x-1) with Slope -1

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the equation of the tangent line to the curve defined by y=1/(x-1) that has a slope of -1. The derivative of the function, y', is calculated to determine the point where the slope equals -1. By rewriting the function as y=(x-1)^-1, the derivative is found using the power rule, leading to the identification of the specific x-value where the tangent meets the slope condition.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus concepts, specifically derivatives
  • Familiarity with the power rule for differentiation
  • Knowledge of tangent lines and their equations
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the power rule in calculus
  • Learn how to find tangent lines to various functions
  • Explore the concept of implicit differentiation
  • Investigate the behavior of rational functions and their derivatives
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Students studying calculus, mathematics educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of derivatives and tangent lines in relation to rational functions.

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Find an equation for the tangent to the curve y=1/(x-1) that has slope -1.
 
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Ok you have y, you know that y'=-1. Is there a way you can find a point x where this happens?
 
If y= 1/(x-1)= (x-1)-1, what is y'? (I hereby give you permission to use (xn)'= nxn-1!)
 

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