Solve Chain Rule Problem: Finding dy/dx for y=2t+3 and x=t^2-t

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the derivative \(\frac{dy}{dx}\) for the functions \(y=2t+3\) and \(x=t^{2}-t\). Participants are exploring the application of the chain rule in calculus, specifically in the context of parametric equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the process of finding \(\frac{dy}{dt}\) and \(\frac{dx}{dt}\) and how to apply the chain rule. There are attempts to clarify the derivatives and some confusion regarding the signs in the derivatives. Questions arise about the applicability of the derivative of the inverse function rule.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing guidance on the derivatives and clarifying misunderstandings. There is acknowledgment of the correct derivatives, but some participants express uncertainty about the broader applicability of the concepts discussed.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that this problem is from a grade 12 calculus textbook, and there is a lack of provided answers in the appendix, which may contribute to the confusion and need for clarification.

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I need help solving this problem. It is in my textbook but no answer is provided in the appendix.

If [tex]y=2t+3[/tex] and [tex]x=t^{2}-t[/tex], find [tex]\frac{dy}{dx}[/tex]

In theory this should be fairly straight forward! Simply find [tex]\frac{dy}{dt}[/tex] and [tex]\frac{dt}{dx}[/tex] and multiply both derivatives together to find [tex]\frac{dy}{dx}[/tex] , but I am having some problems.

I tried solving [tex]x=t^{2}-t[/tex] for t, but that gets ugly pretty fast. I am out of ideas, can someone point me in the right direction? Thanks again in advance.
 
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Remember the rule for the derivative of the inverse function..
 
Sorry

I am sorry but I have never heard of that rule. I just looked through my textbook and I cannot find any mention of it :( This is for grade 12 calculus. could you just elaborate a little bit? sorry and thanks!
 
dy/dt =2

dx/dt=2t-1

dt/dx= 1/2t-1

dy/dx=2/(2t-1)
 
ahhhh that all makes perfect sense now! But wouldn't dt/dx = -1/2t-1... :)
 
Parentheses! Since x= t2- t dx/dt= 2t- 1 and so dt/dx= 1/(2t-1). I see no reason for a negative sign there.
 
Yea I realized that a mintute after I said it.. No need for a perpendicular derivative! lol, don't know what I was thinking, but anyways I understand 100% now. Thanks! Just to make this clear, does this apply to alll instances where you have [tex]\frac{dy}{dx}[/tex] and want to find [tex]\frac{dx}{dy}[/tex] or vice versa? Thanks. I would imagine it would but I just want to make sure.
 

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