Inverse Trig Function: Find Derivative of the Function

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The discussion revolves around finding the derivative of the function f(x) = arcsec(4x). The correct derivative formula is d/dx[arcsecu] = u'/(|u|(√(u^2-1)), where u = 4x. The user initially misapplied the formula, particularly in handling the absolute value and the square root term. After clarifying the correct notation and formula, the user successfully derived the function, resolving their homework issue. The final correct derivative is confirmed as f'(x) = 4/(|4x|(√(16x^2-1))).
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Homework Statement


find the derivative of the function
f(x)=arcsec(4x)


Homework Equations


I think this is a Relevant equations.

d/dx[arcsecu]=u'/(|u|(√u2-1)


The Attempt at a Solution


f'(x)=4/(|4|(√42-1)
=1/√15

I keep getting wrong in my online homework why? :confused:
 
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chapsticks said:

Homework Statement


find the derivative of the function
f(x)=arcsec(4x)


Homework Equations


I think this is a Relevant equations.

d/dx[arcsecu]=u'/(|u|(√u2-1)


The Attempt at a Solution


f'(x)=4/(|4|(√42-1)
=1/√15

I keep getting wrong in my online homework why? :confused:

What happened to the x??
 
is it 4/(|4x|(√4x2-1))

I keep getting it wrong
 
What is u in your original integral? What is u^2?
 
chapsticks said:
is it 4/(|4x|(√4x2-1))

I keep getting it wrong

That's sort of close. But look up the formula again. Isn't the square root part \sqrt(u^2-1) instead of what you have? And when you write something like 4x^2 it's not clear whether you mean (4x)^2 or 4*(x^2). Which do you mean?
 
I mean this one (4x)^2
 
chapsticks said:
I mean this one (4x)^2

Ok, then keep writing it like that. And what about my other question?
 
okay how about this answer??

f'(x)=arcsec4x+ 4/(4x(√(16x)2-1)
 
I did this one in my homework online and it keeps saying I'm wrong
 

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  • #10
chapsticks said:
okay how about this answer??

f'(x)=arcsec4x+ 4/(4x(√(16x)2-1)

Stop changing things without giving any reason. Why did you put the arcsec4x in there? Why did you drop the absolute value on |4x|? (4x)^2 was right, (16x)^2 isn't. Why not?
 
  • #11
chapsticks said:
I did this one in my homework online and it keeps saying I'm wrong

That looks right, except you have x instead of |x|.
 
  • #12
YAY it finally worked thank you :D
 

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