Find the total derivative of ##u## with respect to ##x##

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the total derivative of a function \( u \) with respect to \( x \). Participants are examining the implications of errors in a textbook and the correct formulation of the derivative in the context of the problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to clarify the correct expression for the total derivative, with some expressing confusion over the relationship between \( x \) and \( y \). Questions about the correctness of terms in the derivative and the distinction between total and partial derivatives are raised.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights into potential errors in the textbook and questioning the assumptions made in the problem setup. Some have offered alternative expressions for the derivative, while others are seeking clarification on the relationships between variables.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of errors in the textbook that may affect the understanding of the problem. Participants are also noting the need to distinguish between total and partial derivatives in their discussions.

chwala
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Homework Statement
see attached
Relevant Equations
total derivatives
see attached below; the textbook i have has many errors...

1644283613775.png


clearly ##f_x## is wrong messing up the whole working to solution...we ought to have;
##\frac {du}{dx}=(9x^2+2y)+(2x+8y)3=9x^2+2y+6x+24y=9x^2+6x+26y##
 
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\frac{du}{dx}=9x^2+2y+2x\frac{dy}{dx}+8y\frac{dy}{dx}=9x^2+2(3x+5)+2x3+8(3x+5)3
Expression ##u_x## seems ambiguous to me. How can we change x without changing y?
 
Last edited:
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chwala said:
Homework Statement:: see attached
Relevant Equations:: total derivatives

see attached below; the textbook i have has many errors...

View attachment 296761

clearly ##f_x## is wrong messing up the whole working to solution...we ought to have;
##u_x=(9x^2+2y)+(2x+8y)3=9x^2+2y+6x+24y=9x^2+6x+26y##
Their answer has a typo. The very first term on the right side should be ##9x^2##, not ##6x^2##.
 
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anuttarasammyak said:
\frac{du}{dx}=9x^2+2y+2x\frac{dy}{dx}+8y\frac{dy}{dx}=9x^2+2(3x+5)+2x3+8(3x+5)3
Expression ##u_x## seems ambiguous to me. How can we change x without changing y?
yeah..let me amend that... we want total derivative and not partial derivative...i posted this using my android phone and looks like i did not get it right...:cool:
 
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