How to get the second derivative of this function ?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the second derivative of a function v, which is dependent on another function u that has two variables, x and y. Participants explore the application of the product rule and the chain rule in the context of derivatives, particularly focusing on the complexities involved in differentiating the function v with respect to x.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the first derivative of v as ∂v/∂x = cos(u) . u_x and seeks guidance on how to find the second derivative.
  • Another participant suggests treating cos(u) as a new function and applying the product rule to find the second derivative.
  • A participant attempts to derive the second derivative and proposes ∂²v/∂x² = -sin(u) . u_x + cos(u) . u_{xx}, questioning the presence of (u_x)².
  • There is a correction regarding the first term of the second derivative, indicating it should involve (u_x)².
  • Further clarification is provided on using the product rule, leading to the expression v_{xx} = (cos(u))_x u_x + cos(u) u_{xx}.
  • Participants discuss the application of the chain rule, leading to the conclusion that (cos(u))_x u_x = -sin(u) u_x².

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the correct formulation of the second derivative, particularly regarding the inclusion of (u_x)². The discussion remains unresolved as participants refine their understanding and calculations without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the complexity of obtaining u_x and u_{xx}, indicating that these derivatives may be challenging to compute without computational assistance.

AbuYusufEg
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Let a function [tex]v[/tex] in one variable, say [tex]u[/tex]
[tex]u[/tex] is a function also, but in two variables, say [tex]x[/tex] & [tex]y[/tex]

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

And the resutlt is:
[tex]\frac{\partial v}{\partial x} = cos(u) . u_x[/tex]

Note: [tex]u_x[/tex] is so hard to get, may be impossible without computer.

But, if i want the second derivative of [tex]v[/tex], How to ?

[tex]\frac{\partial^2 v}{\partial x^2} = ?[/tex]

i think that the way for getting it is Differentiating the result, means differentiating: [tex]cos(u) . u_x[/tex]
But how to also ?
 
Last edited:
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Welcome to PF!

Hi AbuYusufEg! Welcome to PF! :smile:

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? :wink:)

Have a go! :smile:
 
i'll give a try !, tell me if any thing wrong ..
[tex]\frac{\partial^2 v}{\partial x^2} = -sin(u).u_x + cos(u).u_{xx}[/tex]
is that correct ? and where is the [tex](u_x)^2[/tex] you talk about ? and why should it be here ?
 
The second term is correct, but the first one should be -sin(u).ux2

can you see why? :smile:
 
Sorry, But No !
 
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 + … ? :smile:
 
[itex]v_x= cos(u)u_x[/itex]
use the product rule:

[itex]v_{xx}= (cos(u))_x u_x+ cos(u) u_{xx}[/itex]
And [itex](cos(u))_x= -sin(u) u_x[/itex] by the chain rule. Because of the "[itex]u_x[/itex]" in that,
[tex](cos(u))_x u_x= (-sin(u) u_x)u_x= -sin(u) u_x^2[/tex].
 
tiny-tim said:
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 + … ? :smile:

HallsofIvy said:
[itex]v_x= cos(u)u_x[/itex]
use the product rule:

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

it's clear now !, good.
 

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