How Do You Differentiate the Function 4e^t(e^(2t) - e^t)?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the derivative of the function 4e^t(e^(2t) - e^t). Participants emphasize the importance of distributing 4e^t through the parentheses before applying the derivative. The chain rule is highlighted as a crucial technique, specifically the formula d/dx[e^(f(x))] = e^(f(x)) * df(x)/dx. Misunderstandings regarding exponent subtraction are clarified, reinforcing the need to correctly apply exponent rules.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic calculus, specifically differentiation techniques.
  • Familiarity with the chain rule in calculus.
  • Knowledge of exponential functions and their properties.
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions involving exponents.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the chain rule in more complex functions.
  • Practice differentiating functions involving products of exponential terms.
  • Review the properties of exponents and logarithms for better manipulation of expressions.
  • Explore advanced differentiation techniques, such as implicit differentiation.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those learning differentiation techniques, as well as educators looking for examples of applying the chain rule and exponent properties in calculus problems.

Quarkn
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Homework Statement



find the derivative of: 4e^t((e^2t)-(e^t))

Homework Equations



d/dx[b^x] = lnb(b^x)d/dx(x)

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried subtracting the two exponents in the brackets as well as multiplying it out. both wrong. Help?
 
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Should that read:
[tex]4e^{t}(e^{2t}-e^{t})[/tex] ?

You should make it easier on yourself and distribute that [itex]4e^{t}[/itex] through the parenthesis and then take the derivative. Remember to use the chainrule, for example, recall that:
[tex]\frac{d}{dx}e^{f(x)}=e^{f(x)}\frac{df(x)}{dx}[/tex]
 
Quarkn said:

Homework Statement



find the derivative of: 4e^t((e^2t)-(e^t))

Homework Equations



d/dx[b^x] = lnb(b^x)d/dx(x)

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried subtracting the two exponents in the brackets as well as multiplying it out. both wrong. Help?

So just to be clear, you are trying to find

[tex]\frac{d}{dt}\left(4e^t\left(e^{2t}-e^t\right)\right)[/tex]

Correct?

Quarkn said:
I tried subtracting the two exponents in the brackets

[tex]e^{2t}-e^t\neq e^t[/tex]

if that's what you were implying. Remember the rules for subtracting indices are

[tex]\frac{a^b}{a^c}=a^{b-c}[/tex]

When you multiplied the factor out (expanded) what did you get?
 

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