How to find the derivative using the chain rule?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the derivative of a function defined in terms of another variable using the chain rule. The original poster presents the functions y = √(5u² - 3) and u = (2x)/(3x + 1) and seeks to compute dy/dx.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the chain rule, with the original poster attempting to compute dy/dx and expressing concern about the simplification of their result. Others check the correctness of the derivative of u with respect to x and suggest corrections to the calculations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants verifying each other's work and clarifying the derivative of u. Some guidance has been provided regarding the correct form of du/dx, and there is an acknowledgment of a missing term in the original poster's calculations.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework rules, which may limit the amount of direct assistance provided. There is a focus on ensuring the accuracy of derivatives and the application of the chain rule without providing complete solutions.

chaosblack
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Homework Statement



Find [tex]\frac{dy}{dx}[/tex] if y = [tex]\sqrt{5u^2 -3}[/tex] and u = [tex]\frac{2x}{3x+1}[/tex]


Homework Equations



Chain Rule
[tex]\frac{dy}{dx}[/tex] = [tex]\frac{dy}{du}[/tex] x [tex]\frac{du}{dx}[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]\frac{dy}{du}[/tex] = 5u(5u^2 - 3)^-1/2

[tex]\frac{du}{dx}[/tex] = -6x(3x+1)^-2

[tex]\frac{dy}{dx}[/tex] = 5u(5u^2 - 3)^-1/2 x -6x(3x+1)^-2
= -30xu(5u^2 - 3)^-1/2 x (3x+1)^-2
= [tex]\frac{-60x^2}{3x+1}[/tex](5([tex]\frac{2x}{3x+1}[/tex])^2 - 3)^-1/2 x (3x+1)^-2

Is that the final simplified answer?
 
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Check your work for du/dx. I think you may have an error. You should have a 2 in the numerator, not a -6x.
 
u = [tex]\frac{2x}{3x+1}[/tex]
u = (2x)(3x+1)^-1
u' = -2x(3x+1)^-2 x (3)
u' = -6x(3x+1)^-2

Did I do something wrong?
 
[tex]\frac{d}{dx}(f(x) g(x)) = \frac{df(x)}{dx} g(x) + f(x) \frac{dg(x)}{dx}[/tex]
You have a term missing.
 
u = (2x)(3x+1)^-1
u' = 2(3x+1)^-1 + (2x)(-1)(3x+1)^2(3)
= 2(3x+1)^-1 - 6x(3x+1)^-2

This?
 
Yes, that's the correct du/dx.
 
dy/dx = 5u(5u^2 - 3)^-1/2 x (2(3x+1)^-1 - 6x(3x+1)^-2)

From here do I just sub in for u?
 
Yep. You got it.
 

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