Is the Derivative of ln[ln tanh x] Well-Defined?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the differentiation of the function ln[ln tanh x], focusing on whether the derivative is well-defined due to the properties of the function involved.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the differentiation process, with attempts to apply the chain rule and identify potential errors in their calculations. Questions arise regarding the validity of the function ln[ln tanh x] and its implications for the derivative.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided feedback on the correctness of the attempted solutions, while others have pointed out that the original function may not be well-defined, leading to further exploration of this concept. There is a recognition of the complexity surrounding the function's definition.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the function ln[ln tanh x] is not well-defined for certain values of x, specifically where tanh x is less than 1, which raises questions about the overall validity of the derivative.

DryRun
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Homework Statement
D.w.r.t.x ln[ln tanh x]

The attempt at a solution
So, here is what I've done:

Since differentiating ln x is 1/x

The answer is: (1/ln tanh x).(tanh x).sech(^2)x

What do you think? The answer is not the above though.
 
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OK, I've made a typo error in the above, as my actual solution is:

The answer is: (1/ln tanh x).(1/tanh x).sech(^2)x

It's still not the correct answer though, so I'm staring into space.
 
Hi sharks! :smile:

Your answer looks right to me.
Is this for some on-line website that has difficulty parsing correct answers?
 
Here is the answer (from my maths manual): Not defined. :redface:
 
Your "(1/ln tanh x).(1/tanh x).sech(^2)x" answer is correct, but you can use trig identities to reduce the "(1/tanh x).sech(^2)x" part to a cosh function. Might that be part of the confusion?
 
Ah, I see.
It's a trick question.
Your original function ln[ln tanh x] is not well defined anywhere, since tanh x < 1.
Since the original function is not properly defined, neither is its derivative.
 

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