Help on logarithmic differentiation problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the derivative of the function y = (sin(x))^(ln(x)) using logarithmic differentiation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the initial steps of logarithmic differentiation, including the use of natural logarithms and the manipulation of exponents. Questions arise about the correct application of differentiation rules and the handling of exponents.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring various approaches to logarithmic differentiation, with some providing guidance on using the product rule and clarifying misunderstandings about exponent manipulation. There is an ongoing dialogue about the correct application of differentiation techniques.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express confusion about the transformations involved in the differentiation process and the implications of using different mathematical properties. There are indications of differing interpretations of the steps involved.

crm08
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Homework Statement



Use logarithmic differentiation to find the derivative of the function.

Homework Equations



y = (sin(x))^(ln(x))

The Attempt at a Solution



I guessing the first step is raise both sides to "e", but so far I have only completed problems by taking the natural log of both sides.

(1) e^(y) = e^(sin(x))^(ln(x))

(2) d/dx (e^y) = d/dx (e^(sin(x))^(ln(x)))

(3) Can I start moving exponents in front of "e" to use the product rule, if so, do I bring "sin(x)^(ln(x)) down?, or am I on the completely wrong track?
 
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Hi crm08! :smile:
crm08 said:
y = (sin(x))^(ln(x))

(1) e^(y) = e^(sin(x))^(ln(x))

= e^(sin(x)*ln(x)) :wink:
 
Oh I gotcha, so now use:

d/dx (e^g(x)) = e^g(x) * g'(x), where g(x) = (sin(x))(ln(x)), and use product rule for g'(x)

I think I'm on the right track
 
use ln not e, since [tex]\ln{x^a} =a \ln{x}[/tex]
So that [tex]\ln{y} = \ln( \sin{x}^{\ln{x}} ) = \ln(x) \ln(sin{x})[/tex]
 
tiny-tim, I'm confused, why would [tex]e^y = e^{(\sin(x)^{\ln(x)})}[/tex] equals [tex]e^{(\sin(x)*\ln(x))}[/tex]
 
ok I'm getting

(1/y) * dy/dx = (ln(x))*(1/sin(x))*(cos(x)) + (ln(sin(x))*(1/x)

= y*[(ln(x))*(tan(x)) + ((ln(sin(x))) / x)]

am I getting any closer?
 
wsalem said:
tiny-tim, I'm confused, why would [tex]e^y = e^{(\sin(x)^{\ln(x)})}[/tex] equals [tex]e^{(\sin(x)*\ln(x))}[/tex]

It wouldn't. In general, (a^b)^c = a^(bc), but not a^(b^c). Take an example using a=3, b=2, c=3.

(a^b)^c = 729= a^(bc). a^(b^c) = 3^8, different.

I'm sure tiny-tim just got a bit confused.

As for crm08 - the tan should be a cot, and you should not use an equals signs when you actually multiplied by y, but other than that its looking sweet.
 
oops!

Gib Z said:
I'm sure tiny-tim just got a bit confused.

mmm … all those ^s :redface:

it'll be a lot easier if everyone uses the X2 tag (just above the reply box) :wink:

let's see, it should have been …

sinxlnx = (eln(sinx))lnx = eln(sinx)*lnx
:blushing:
 
ahhh, so you were referring to y and not [tex]e^y[/tex] that equals [tex]e^{\ln(sinx)*\ln{x}}[/tex].
That makes sense now!
 

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