Help wid differn when to take logs of both sides

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation x = 1/(1+x^x) using the Newton-Raphson iterative method, with a focus on differentiating the function f(x) = x(1+x^x) - 1. Participants are exploring the appropriate application of logarithmic differentiation in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning when it is appropriate to take logarithms of both sides of an equation, particularly in relation to differentiating the function f(x). There is discussion about whether logarithmic differentiation can be applied to the entire function or just specific terms, such as x^x.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the differentiation process and the application of logarithmic properties. Some participants are suggesting different approaches to differentiate the function, while others express uncertainty about the validity of their methods. No consensus has been reached yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the implications of differentiating expressions that involve logarithms and the conditions under which such techniques can be applied. There is a concern about the simplification of the function and the potential pitfalls of applying logarithmic differentiation incorrectly.

ankur29
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Homework Statement



solve via newt raphson iterative method to 4dp

Find the solution x= 1/(1+x^x) to 4dp beginning at x=1


Homework Equations




Now the formula for this is

x1= x0 – f(x0)/f’(x0)

Now what I did was rearrange so f(x)= x( 1+x^x)-1=0

I need to differentiatie this expression

So say I called it y= x( 1+x^x)-1

Could I proceed by taking logs of both sides


i.e (an example where I saw people take logs of boths ides was when y=x^x and therefore lny=x^x) is that only for when there is one term equal to another




The Attempt at a Solution



how I attempted it was as follows

y= x + x^(x+1) -1

lny = lnx +(x+1)lnx - ln1

lny= lnx +xlnx +lnx –ln1

1/y dy/dx= 1/x + lnx +1

dy/dx = (x + x^(x+1) -1) (1/x + lnx +1)

now this feels wrong to me 
 
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y=x(1+x^x)-1=f(x)=0 => ln(y)=ln(0) ?

why not differentiate f(x)=x(1+x^x)-1 and use the log method to differentiate just x^x part?
 
reckon said:
y=x(1+x^x)-1=f(x)=0 => ln(y)=ln(0) ?

why not differentiate f(x)=x(1+x^x)-1 and use the log method to differentiate just x^x part?


the f(x) simpliefies to x + x^(x+1) -1

do you mean differentiate the x^(x+1) separately

i don't think it can work like that?

do i not need something to equal something before i can apply the log thing
 
yes, to differentiate the x^(x+1)
f(x)=x+x^(x+1)-1

let y=x^(x+1)
apply the log trick to y to get y' and you will get f'(x) as
f'(x)=1+y'
 

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