Probably really easy, derivative of cotx/sinx

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In summary, the derivative of the function f(x) = \frac{cotx}{sinx} is -\frac{1+cos^{2}x}{sin^{3}x}. The -1 is obtained using the Pythagorean identity and the cosx term is still present in the final answer.
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dietcookie
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Homework Statement


Find the derivative of the function.

f(x) = [tex]\frac{cotx}{sinx}[/tex]

Homework Equations



[tex]\frac{cotx}{sinx}[/tex] = [tex]\frac{cosx}{sin^{2}x}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



I have the solution guide, I think I'm just having a brain fart but this is what I have so far which is the last step before the final answer

[tex]\frac{-sin^{2}x - 2cos^{2}x}{sin^{3}x}[/tex]

The next step, which is the answer according to the book is

[tex]\frac{-1-cos^{2}x}{sin^{3}x}[/tex]

Am I just not seeing something on my last step? I think they got the -1 from using the pythagorean indentity but then why is the cosx still hanging around? Thanks.
 
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  • #2
You will feel ashamed enough to put a paper bag on the head.

[tex]-\sin^2x -2\cos^2x = -(\sin^2x+\cos^2x)-\cos^2x[/tex]
 
  • #3
Borek said:
You will feel ashamed enough to put a paper bag on the head.

[tex]-\sin^2x -2\cos^2x = -(\sin^2x+\cos^2x)-\cos^2x[/tex]

Yep that's most definitely embarrassing! Thanks!
 

1. What is the derivative of cot(x)/sin(x)?

The derivative of cot(x)/sin(x) is equal to -csc^2(x).

2. How do you find the derivative of cot(x)/sin(x)?

To find the derivative of cot(x)/sin(x), you can use the quotient rule. First, find the derivative of the numerator and denominator separately, then plug them into the quotient rule formula: (f'(x)g(x) - f(x)g'(x)) / (g(x)^2).

3. Is the derivative of cot(x)/sin(x) a trigonometric function?

Yes, the derivative of cot(x)/sin(x) is a trigonometric function. In fact, it is equal to -csc^2(x), which is a combination of the trigonometric functions csc and cos.

4. Can the derivative of cot(x)/sin(x) be simplified?

Yes, the derivative of cot(x)/sin(x) can be simplified to -csc^2(x) or -1/sin^2(x). These are equivalent forms of the derivative and may be more useful in different situations.

5. How can I use the derivative of cot(x)/sin(x) in real-world applications?

The derivative of cot(x)/sin(x) can be used in various fields such as physics and engineering to calculate rates of change, slopes, and other important quantities. It can also be used in solving optimization problems and in finding the equations of tangent lines to curves.

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