# How to get the second derivative of this function ?

1. Dec 31, 2008

Let a function $$v$$ in one variable, say $$u$$
$$u$$ is a function also, but in two variables, say $$x$$ & $$y$$

for the first derivative of $$v$$, i did the following:
$$\frac{\partial v}{\partial x} = \frac{d v}{d u} . \frac{\partial u}{\partial x}$$

And the resutlt is:
$$\frac{\partial v}{\partial x} = cos(u) . u_x$$

Note: $$u_x$$ is so hard to get, may be impossible without computer.

But, if i want the second derivative of $$v$$, How to ?

$$\frac{\partial^2 v}{\partial x^2} = ?$$

i think that the way for getting it is Differentiating the result, means differentiating: $$cos(u) . u_x$$
But how to also ?

Last edited: Dec 31, 2008
2. Dec 31, 2008

### tiny-tim

Welcome to PF!

Hi AbuYusufEg! Welcome to PF!

Just treat cos(u) as your new v, and use the product rule.

(there'll be a (ux)2 in it … was that putting you off? )

Have a go!

3. Dec 31, 2008

i'll give a try !, tell me if any thing wrong ..
$$\frac{\partial^2 v}{\partial x^2} = -sin(u).u_x + cos(u).u_{xx}$$
is that correct ? and where is the $$(u_x)^2$$ you talk about ? and why should it be here ?

4. Dec 31, 2008

### tiny-tim

The second term is correct, but the first one should be -sin(u).ux2

can you see why?

5. Dec 31, 2008

Sorry, But No !

6. Dec 31, 2008

### tiny-tim

ok … you have to use the product rule on cos(u).ux

so it's cos(u).(∂/∂x(ux)) + (∂/∂x(cos(u)).ux

= cos(u).uxx + … ?

7. Dec 31, 2008

### HallsofIvy

Staff Emeritus
$v_x= cos(u)u_x$
use the product rule:

$v_{xx}= (cos(u))_x u_x+ cos(u) u_{xx}$
And $(cos(u))_x= -sin(u) u_x$ by the chain rule. Because of the "$u_x$" in that,
$$(cos(u))_x u_x= (-sin(u) u_x)u_x= -sin(u) u_x^2$$.

8. Dec 31, 2008