Deriving the Function f(x) = 1/(1+e^x) using Quotient Rule

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SUMMARY

The derivative of the function f(x) = 1/(1+e^x) is derived using the Quotient Rule. The correct derivative is f'(x) = -e^x / (1 + e^x)^2. A common mistake involves the sign in the numerator, which should not include an overall negative. Understanding the Quotient Rule is essential for correctly applying it to functions of this form.

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  • Quotient Rule in calculus
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Students studying calculus, particularly those learning differentiation techniques, and educators looking for examples of applying the Quotient Rule.

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Homework Statement



Find derivative of function: f\left(x\right)=\frac{1}{1+e^{x}}

Homework Equations



quotient rule.

The Attempt at a Solution



hopefully this is the solution:
f^{'}\left(x\right)=\frac{e^{x}}{(1+e^{x})^{2}}
 
Last edited:
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Really close, but not exactly. Are you sure about the denominator? How is it different from that of the original function?
 
oh, thanks! i had that messed up on my paper too.
 
The derivative is okay up to the overall "-" sign which should be absent in the numerator.
 
i think its fixed now...
 
Still incorrect. Remember that

\frac{d}{dx}\left(\frac{1}{f(x)}\right)=-\frac{f'(x)}{f^{2}(x)}
 
oh, i know this should be easy but I've been studying calculus for only 48 hours, so i appreciate the patience and help.

I could easily rewrite the equation like this (1+e^{x})^{-1} and derivate it, but i should know how to do it the other way.
 
Last edited:

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