How do you take the derivative of -(t + 1)sin(\frac{t^2}{2})?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the process of taking the derivative of the expression -(t + 1)sin(\frac{t^2}{2}). Participants seek clarification on the rules and steps involved in differentiation, particularly in the context of switching from integrals to derivatives.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about taking derivatives after focusing on integrals for an extended period.
  • Another participant suggests using the power rule for differentiating (t^2)/2, stating that (t^n)'=nt^(n-1) and noting that constants can be factored out.
  • A different participant emphasizes the need to apply both the product rule and chain rule to differentiate the entire expression.
  • A detailed step-by-step differentiation is provided, showing the application of the product rule and chain rule, resulting in an expression involving both sine and cosine functions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the necessity of using the product and chain rules for differentiation, but there is no consensus on the best approach to explain or teach these concepts, as some participants provide differing levels of detail and methods.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reference external resources for further clarification on differentiation rules, indicating that there may be varying levels of familiarity with the topic among participants.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students transitioning from integrals to derivatives, particularly those seeking a refresher on differentiation rules and techniques.

firefly_1
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[SOLVED] Refresher on Derivatives

I feel rather dumb asking this but I could use a quick refresher on some parts of derivatives since for the past months I have been solely working on integrals and known cross sections so suddenly switching back has left my brain reeling.

The main question I need explained is how do you take a derivative of [tex]-(t + 1)sin(\frac{t^2}{2})[/tex]

I remember a trick my AP teacher told me of 1D2 + 2D1 meaning take the first part muliplied by the derivative of the second plus the second multiplied by the derivative of the first. The problem is, I don't remember how to take the derivatve of (t^2)/2
 
Last edited:
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Power rule. (t^n)'=nt^(n-1). Remember that constants slide out as well.
 
You need to use a combination of the product rule and chain rule to differentiate the whole expression. But for t^2/2, use the power rule.

For a quick refresher of the rules, you can have a look at this thread at the tutorial
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=139690
 
[tex]\frac{d}{dt}\left[-(t + 1)sin(\frac{t^2}{2})\right][/tex]

[tex]= -\left[(t+1)\frac{d}{dt}\left(\sin \frac{t^2}{2}\right) + \left(\sin \frac{t^2}{2}\right)\frac{d}{dt}(t+1)\right][/tex]

[tex]= -\left[(t+1)\cos \left(\frac{t^2}{2}\right)\frac{d}{dt}\left(\frac{t^2}{2}\right) + \sin \frac{t^2}{2}\right][/tex]

[tex]= -\left[(t+1)\cos \left(\frac{t^2}{2}\right)\cdot t + \sin \frac{t^2}{2}\right][/tex]
 
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