How do I differentiate m(L^2)/16?

[Mark44]

Yes! Since dL/dx = 0, what do you get for dI/dx?
dI/dx = d/dx(m₁x² - m₂(L - x)²) = ?

 

[matt_crouch]

so dI/dx=2m₁+2m₂(L-x)

?

 

[Mark44]

Now the second term is correct, but the first one isn't. You had it right before.

Since you're having so much trouble with differentiation, I would advise you to go back and review the basic differentiation rules, especially the product rule and chain rule, and derivative of a constant rule.

 

[matt_crouch]

ahh ye just missed the x from the first term
thanks for all the help btw =]