How do I differentiate (x^(3)+2x) / (x^(2)-5)?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves differentiating the function (x^(3)+2x) / (x^(2)-5) using the quotient rule. Participants are discussing the differentiation process and potential simplifications.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the quotient rule and identify errors in the differentiation of the numerator. There is also a focus on simplifying the resulting expression.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided corrections regarding the differentiation of terms and suggested expanding the products in the numerator for simplification. There is acknowledgment of errors, but no consensus on the final form of the derivative.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of homework rules, seeking clarification and validation of their attempts without providing complete solutions.

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Homework Statement


(x^(3)+2x) / (x^(2)-5) d/dx = ?


Homework Equations


d/dx (f/g) = (g d/dx (f) - f d/dx (g)) / g^2


The Attempt at a Solution



d/dx y = { (x^(2)-5) d/dx (x^(3)+2x) - (x^(3)+2x) d/dx (x^(2)-5) } / (x^(2)-5)^2

This is where it gets complicated for me.

{ (x^(2)-5)(2x^(2)+2) - (x^(3)+2x)(2x) } / (x^(2)-5)^2

I am pretty sure this is at least close, if it is wrong please tell me where I went wrong, and if it is right but not simplified can you explain how to simplify it further.

Thank you in advance, I hope that I gave you appropriate information.
 
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That's almost it. Except d/dx x^(3) is 3x^(2), not 2x^(2). About the only thing you can do to simplify is expand the products in the numerator and add them.
 
The only mistake I noticed was where you have d/dx(x^3 + 2x) = 2x^2 + 2. That should be 3x^2 + 2.

[tex]\frac{dy}{dx}~=~\frac{(x^2 - 5)(3x^2 + 2) - (x^3 + 2x)(2x)}{(x^2 - 5)^2}[/tex]

You might get some simplification if you multiply the two products in the numerator and then combine like terms.
 
Yep that was a careless typing error, thank you for validating.
 

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