The discussion revolves around differentiating a polynomial function that includes a term with pi, specifically the function y = -5x^3 + 4/x^5 + 1.7pi. Participants are exploring the rules of differentiation in the context of calculus, particularly focusing on how to handle constants and polynomial terms.
The discussion is active, with participants providing insights and clarifications on the differentiation process. Some have offered guidance on how to approach the problem, while others express confusion about specific steps and results. There is no explicit consensus on the final answer, but various interpretations and methods are being explored.
Participants are working under the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the depth of explanation they can provide. There is a noted confusion regarding the treatment of constants like pi and the application of derivative rules, particularly in relation to polynomial expressions.
Thendi said:y = -5x^3 + 4/x^5 + 1.7pi
see how its like 4/x^5 how do you find the derivative of that.
I got the first part -15x^2+?
Thendi said:ok I get -15x^2+4x^-5
i took out -5 as a common factor but the answer is -5(3x^8 + 4)/x^6
3x^8 where is the power of 8 coming from isn't it suppose to be 2
Thendi said:ok I get -15x^2+4x^-5
i took out -5 as a common factor but the answer is -5(3x^8 + 4)/x^6
3x^8 where is the power of 8 coming from isn't it suppose to be 2
Thendi said:I am confused what does * mean? "i) I said 4/x^5=4*x^(-5). You still need to differentiate it." i did differentiate it...i get -20x^-6 is it right?
Robert1986 said:Setting aside the differentiation for a moment, when you say that you took out -5 as a common factor, you don't mean that you took it out of 4x^-5, do you? If so, this is not allowed. If not, ignore this post.
Thendi said:no no i took -5 out of [-15x^2 - 20x-6]
so i get -5[3x^2 - 4x^-6]
I am so confused, can you please do the whole question step by step if possible because I really need to know where I did the mistake. Anyone