# Implicit differentiation question: can't divide a fraction divided by another

## Homework Statement

I'm try to implicitly differentiate the function: xlny+√y=lnx

## The Attempt at a Solution

And I got to the stage where I have: dy/dx = (1/x-lny)/(x/y+1/(2*√y)) which is where I have no idea on how to clean this up. Could someone please explain to me how to simplify a function like that?

Im not quite sure if I was heading to the right anwer but anyway the book provided the answer of
(2y-2xylny)/(2x^2+x√y).

Either way I would like to know how to simplify an equation like the one I have as I've come across it a few times.

## The Attempt at a Solution

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Dick
Homework Helper
Multiply numerator and denominator by 2xy. Do you see how this clears the denominators on the top and bottom? Can you see why 2xy is a good choice?

I see so your chose 2xy to cancel everything, so when it comes to this situation you are allowed to choose any term that will simplify the equation? Of course as long as your multiply top and bottom.

I'm still stuck now I'm up to dy/dx = [(2y-2xyln(y)]/(2x^2+2xy√y) its so close to the answer of (2y-2xylny)/(2x^2+x√y) how do I get rid of the 2 and the y from the last bit 2xy√y?

Dick
Homework Helper
2xy times 1/(2*sqrt(y)=x*sqrt(y), yes? And sure, you chose any factor that will simpify the result. Choose the minimal one.

Wait disregard my last attempt I made a mistake. I now have [2y-2xln(y)]/[2x^2+(xy/√y)] and I need the last bit to look like (x√y).

could I please ask why 2xy times 1/(2*sqrt(y)=x*sqrt(y)? I see the 2's cancel but what about the rest?

Dick