Finding Turning Points of y=e^{-t}sin(2t)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the turning points of the function y=e^{-t}sin(2t). Participants are exploring the process of determining these points through the first and second derivatives of the function.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the necessity of setting the first derivative to zero to find turning points, questioning the conditions under which this occurs. There is also a focus on the complexity of substituting values into the second derivative to classify the nature of the turning points.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the process of finding turning points, while others have raised questions about notation and the implications of the first derivative. There appears to be a productive exchange of ideas regarding the identification of specific values for turning points and the behavior of the function.

Contextual Notes

There is an acknowledgment that the exponential function e^{-t} is never zero, which influences the approach to finding turning points. The discussion also highlights the oscillatory nature of sine and cosine functions, suggesting that local maxima and minima may occur at specific intervals.

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Homework Statement



I have this function
[tex]y=e^{-t}sin(2t)[/tex]

Homework Equations


[tex]\frac{dy}{dt}=e^{-t}(-sin(2t)+2cos(2t))[/tex]
and I know that we can find from this the turning points. Then we substitute to the second derivative to know if they are positive or negative and thus make them min or max. The substitution is not easy though
[tex]\frac{d^2y}{dt^2}=-4 e^{-t} Cos(2t)-3e^{-t}Sin(2t)[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


I try to find the turning points but honestly I am little lost since the second derivative is little complicated. So any easy way to understand which one is min and which is maximum?
I know i have to find the stationary points from the first derivative and to substitute to the second but this substitution is little complicated. Any ideas are welcome.
 
Last edited:
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well to find the turning points you find where the first derivative = 0 right? where would that be? when will e^-t =0? or when will -sin2t+2cos2t=0?

also your notation is wrong, you took the derivative w.r.t. time on the RHS but on the LHS you have dy/dx should be dy/dt.
 
i didnt notice that, sorry, yes i mean dt not dx
 
I know that the exponential is never zero i can fine the turning points its just the substitution to the second derivative that creates problem.
i know that [tex]t=\frac{arctan2}{2}+k\pi[/tex] but the substitution is the problem. I know how to solve it, I am not sure about the substitution to the second derivative.
 
well what would be some numbers from -sin2t+2cos2t=0?
yes you could find EVERY point which is that formula you have but try finding 1-2 first and then 2 more and see if it's repeating since sine/cosine oscillate they might have only a local max/min at t=(arctan2)/2+kpi
 
Thats a good idea, thanks. I did what you said and i got an idea of the function. even k gives second derivative negative so is min and odd k gives positive second derivative so is maximum (local of course). Thank for the help
 
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