How can I generalize the derivative of a reciprocal function?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around generalizing the derivative of the reciprocal of a function, specifically focusing on finding a formula or series representation for the nth derivative without directly calculating derivatives of the original function. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and exploration of derivative properties.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks a series representation for the nth derivative of the reciprocal of a function, μ'(x), without calculating derivatives directly.
  • Another participant questions the distinction between "reciprocal" and "inverse function" and asks for clarification on the desired series representation.
  • A participant expresses a desire for a formula that outputs the nth derivative of the reciprocal function κ'[x] when given n as an argument, similar to the formula for the nth derivative of e^ax.
  • Concerns are raised about the clarity of the problem, particularly regarding the unspecified nature of k'(x) and the need for examples of attempted solutions.
  • One participant suggests that the nth derivative of 1/k'(x) may not differ significantly from the general formula for 1/f(x).
  • Another participant proposes a pattern for the derivatives of the reciprocal function but expresses uncertainty about the existence of a simple formula, mentioning Fa di Bruno's formula as a more complex alternative.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the existence of a simple formula for the nth derivative of the reciprocal function. There are multiple competing views and ongoing clarifications regarding the problem's formulation.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the ambiguity in the definitions and representations of the functions involved, particularly the unspecified nature of k'(x) and the lack of clarity in the original problem statement.

Aspiring
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Hi guys, I need help generalizing the derivative of the reciprocal of the function μ'(×).

What I would to find is a series representation whereby I don't have to find any derivatives of the function but merely replace powers and orders of derivatives.

Leibniz's series expression for the nth derivative of the two functions doesn't help nor the sum for the nth derivative of the composite of two functions( I forgot the name of the mathematician who derived it).

Any help would be appreciated.
 
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Aspiring said:
generalizing the derivative of the reciprocal of the function μ'(×).

Before we go to far. Let's make sure you mean "reciprocal" and not "inverse function".

What I would to find is a series representation whereby I don't have to find any derivatives of the function.

If the series doesn't contain any expressions involving the derivatives of "the function", what is it allowed to contain? Try to state your problem clearly. As it reads now we have:

[itex]f(x) = \frac{1}{\mu'(x)}[/itex]

and you want some sort of series representation for [itex]f'(x)[/itex].

Are you talking about a power series?
 
Not Quite; just a function that when I enter, say n=1 , as its argument it results in it's first derivative and so on. I don't want to calculate the function at points or find a power/Taylor series representation.

I have tried to generalize but I can't find a pattern, using the quotient rule to differentiate that is.

Any Help? :)
 
Last edited:
Aspiring said:
when I enter, say n=1 , as its argument it results in it's first derivative and so on
Which function is "it's"? [itex]f(x)[/itex]?
Show an example of what you tried -because you aren't expressing your goal clearly.
 
Okay, let me clarify.

I wish to find a formula that will give me the nth derivative of the reciprocal of κ'[x].

Just as the the nth derivative of the function e^ax is given by a^n(e^ax); I'am looking for the equivalent with the above function. Whether the function for the nth derivative is as a sum or series of products, I'm happy.

I hope that helps.
 
Aspiring said:
Okay, let me clarify.
I wish to find a formula that will give me the nth derivative of the reciprocal of κ'[x].
Hi !
This clarify nothing since nobody knows what K'(x) is.
 
Are you looking for some the nth derivative of some function 1/k'(x)?
It wouldn't really differ from the formula of some function 1/f(x).
 
Yes exactly! just k'(x) is not specified!

Surely it must be possible to find an nth derivative formula using the quotient rule?
 
So basically, you want to find the general term of this pattern:

1/f(x) , -1/f(x)^2 * f'(x) , 2/f(x)^3 * f'(x)^2 - 1/f(x)^2 * f''(x) , ... ?

(where I start with 1/f, its derivative, its second derivative, ... up to the n-th derivative).


Honestly I don't know whether a simple formula exists, although I've heard of Fa di Bruno's more general formula for the n-th derivative of f(g(x)), which I absolutely don't understand.
 

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