Simplifying this differential using product rule?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on simplifying the expression involving partial derivatives using the product rule in calculus. The user correctly applies the product rule to the term \( \frac{\partial}{\partial x} (xW(x,y)) \), resulting in \( W(x,y) + x \frac{\partial W(x,y)}{\partial x} \). The final simplification leads to the equation \( x \frac{\partial W(x,y)}{\partial x} - W(x,y) - x \frac{\partial W(x,y)}{\partial x} = W \), confirming the correctness of the approach. Participants affirm the validity of the user's calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of partial derivatives
  • Familiarity with the product rule in calculus
  • Basic knowledge of functions of multiple variables
  • Experience with mathematical notation and simplification techniques
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  • Study advanced applications of the product rule in multivariable calculus
  • Explore the implications of partial derivatives in physics and engineering contexts
  • Learn about the chain rule and its relationship with the product rule
  • Investigate common mistakes in applying calculus rules to functions of multiple variables
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Students and professionals in mathematics, engineering, and physics who are working with multivariable functions and need to simplify expressions involving partial derivatives.

climbon
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Hi, I am trying to simplify this;

<br /> x \frac{\partial}{\partial x} W(x,y) - \frac{\partial}{\partial x} (xW(x,y))<br /> <br />

Am I correct in thinking I can do this with the product rule, as;

<br /> <br /> \frac{\partial}{\partial x} (xW(x,y)) = \left( \frac{\partial x}{\partial x}\right) W(x,y) + x \frac{\partial W(x,y)}{\partial x}<br /> <br /> \\<br /> <br /> =W(x,y) + x \frac{\partial W(x,y)}{\partial x}<br /> <br />

Giving the whole thing as;

<br /> <br /> x \frac{\partial W(x,y)}{\partial x} - W(x,y) - x \frac{\partial W(x,y)}{\partial x}=W<br /> <br />

Is this correct??

Thanks
 
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hi climbon! :wink:
climbon said:
<br /> <br /> x \frac{\partial W(x,y)}{\partial x} - W(x,y) - x \frac{\partial W(x,y)}{\partial x}=W<br /> <br />

Is this correct??

Thanks

yes! :smile:
 

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