Solving Differential Equations

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving differential equations using the chain rule in calculus. Participants analyze the derivatives of functions such as cos(theta), t sin(theta), and e^(-3x), emphasizing the importance of recognizing whether variables are functions of time (t). The consensus is that if theta is indeed a function of t, the derivatives must be calculated using the chain rule, specifically the formula d/dt f(x) = dy/dx * dx/dt. Misunderstandings arise when assuming variables are independent of t.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of differential calculus
  • Familiarity with the chain rule in calculus
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions and their derivatives
  • Basic concepts of functions and their dependencies
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the chain rule in calculus
  • Learn how to differentiate trigonometric functions with respect to time
  • Explore the implications of variable dependencies in differential equations
  • Practice solving more complex differential equations involving multiple variables
USEFUL FOR

Students of calculus, mathematics educators, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of differential equations and the chain rule.

mattmannmf
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Solve the following:

d/dt cos(theta)
d/dt t sin(theta)
d/dt r cos (theta)
d/dt r^2 (theta)
d/dt e^ (-3x)
d/dt (x^2 + y^2)

I would assume all by the second one are 0 since your solving for terms dt and not theta, x, y, or r... I don't think its right at all. I know it goes something like this:
d/dt f(x) = dy/dx * dx/dt
I just am not sure how to grasp what I'm doing wrong.
 
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Is theta a function of t?
 
what do you mean?
 
is \theta =\theta (t), otherwise the derivative will be non-zero.
 
all it says its differential calculus and gives the problem as I stated above
 
From the title of the thread ("Calculus Chain Rule"), I think it's reasonable to assume that \theta is a differentiable function of t, and that you are meant to use the chain rule.
 

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