How Do You Differentiate This Complex Logarithmic Function?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around differentiating a complex logarithmic function, specifically the function f(x) = [ln(x) {{1-e^(3x)}^3}] / [{1+e^(3x)}^3x]. Participants are exploring methods of differentiation, including the application of product and quotient rules, and discussing the context of the problem, whether it is for homework or practical application.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests help in solving the derivative of the given function.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of showing work and understanding differentiation methods.
  • A participant suggests that the problem is not difficult but may require patience and familiarity with derivative rules.
  • It is proposed to break the function into manageable parts, specifically suggesting to express it as f(x) = ln(x)*R(x) where R(x) = P(x)/Q(x).
  • Participants discuss applying the product and quotient rules for differentiation, with one providing a specific form for f'(x).
  • One participant expresses curiosity about the derivative, mentioning they encountered it in a past exam but are unable to solve it.
  • A later reply provides the quotient rule for differentiating R(x), indicating a method to proceed.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the methods to approach the differentiation problem, but there is no consensus on the specific steps or solutions, as some express uncertainty and others provide different approaches.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note that the problem may be lengthy and complex, suggesting that a software tool could be useful for avoiding errors. There is also an emphasis on understanding the underlying methods rather than just obtaining a final result.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students learning differentiation techniques, particularly in the context of logarithmic and rational functions, as well as those preparing for exams or seeking practical applications of calculus.

alba_ei
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Who can slove this one:

f(x) = [ln(x) {{1-e^(3x)}^3}] / [{1+e^(3x)}^3x]

f '(x) = ¿¿¿¿??
 
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Again, please show your work for this homework question. What methods of differentiation do you know of?
 
alba_ei,

This is not difficult but a little bit long to write.
What is your objective?
Is it for some homework, or do you have a practical application?

For an homework, the result would not be helpful for you, only the method matters.
There are only known functions in this expression: products, divisions, logarithm, exponential.
Reading a table of derivatives rules and a bit of patience is enough.
On wiki you can find the basis about derivatives and the http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Derivative" .

For a practical application, more details would be needed to decide how to proceed for the best result.
If this derivative is the only one in the project, then using a software like Mathematica could avoid any typing error.
If you only need numerical results, then "Numerical Recipes" explains what to care for.

Michel
 
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alba_ei,

As lalbatros suggests, this may be long and messy. But consider breaking this down into managable parts. For example, let your function be

f(x) = ln(x)*R(x)

where R(x) = P(x)/Q(x)

Then, apply the various rules of differentiation (product, quotient, etc) to perform the derivative. Start simply, and break each component down.

For example, start with

f'(x) = [ln(x)]' * R(x) + ln(x) *R'(x)

In the end, you should be able to find an expression for f'(x) in the form

f'(x) = R(x) * W(x)

where W(x) = 1/x + ln(x) * s(x) (you find s(x))

Give it a try, and come back if you still get stuck.
 
well, I saw that derivate on some past exam so the last night I remmember it and post it, just for curiosity because I can't slove it.

f(x) = ln(x)*R(x)

where R(x) = P(x)/Q(x)

I get stuck when I try to get the derivate of R(x).
 
alba_ei said:
I get stuck when I try to get the derivate of R(x).

Use the quotient rule: [tex]R'(x)=\frac{Q(x)P'(x)-P(x)Q'(x)}{Q(x)^2}[/tex]
 

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