Solving the Derivative of Sin22x

  • Thread starter Thread starter elsternj
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Derivative
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the derivative of the function Sin²(2x), with participants exploring the application of the chain rule in calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants consider different substitutions for U, such as U = Sin(2x) and U = 2x, and discuss the implications of each choice on the derivative calculation. There is a focus on the correct application of the chain rule and the need for multiple applications in this context.

Discussion Status

Some participants provide guidance on the correct approach to applying the chain rule, indicating that the original poster is on the right track but needs clarification on certain derivative calculations. There is a recognition of the need for careful evaluation of derivatives at each step.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information they can share or the methods they can use. There is an emphasis on ensuring understanding rather than providing direct solutions.

elsternj
Messages
42
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Derivative of Sin22x



Homework Equations


dy/dx = dy/du * du/dx

y=U2


The Attempt at a Solution


Just want to make sure I am doing this right*.

Do I let U = Sin2x or U = 2x?

Let's say U = Sin2x
y=U2

then y` = 2Sin2x * cos2x?

Or if U = 2x.

y = SinU2

y` = 2cos2x * 2
y` = 4cos2x

am i on the right track with either of these? any help is appreciated! thanks!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org


elsternj said:
am i on the right track with either of these?

You are halfway on the right track :smile:.

Sin^2(2x)=F(U(V)): V=2x, U=sin(V), F=U^2.

dF/dx=dF/dU*dU/dV*dV/dx.

ehild
 


elsternj said:

Homework Statement


Derivative of Sin22x



Homework Equations


dy/dx = dy/du * du/dx

y=U2


The Attempt at a Solution


Just want to make sure I am doing this right*.

Do I let U = Sin2x or U = 2x?
You first let U= sin 2x so that y= U^2, y'= 2U U'.

Then, to find U', let V= 2x so U= sin V. U'= cos(V)(V') and, of course, V'= 2.
Put those together.

Let's say U = Sin2x
y=U2

then y` = 2Sin2x * cos2x?
No, because the derivative of sin2X is not cos2X. Use the chain rule again.

Or if U = 2x.

y = SinU2

y` = 2cos2x * 2
y` = 4cos2x
No, because the derivative of sin^2(x) is not cos^2(x)

am i on the right track with either of these? any help is appreciated! thanks!
 


Essentially, what this entire question boils down to:
We need two applications of the chain rule.
The first one started well.

Instead of
y` = 2Sin2x * cos2x
I recommend beginning Calculus students write.
y` = 2Sin2x * ( Sin2x )'
The left factor, 2 Sin(2x) is finished.
Then to evaluate the derivative of Sin 2x, apply chain rule a second time, with v =2x



General hint, way to think of chain rule:
Take deriv. of the outside, leave the inside alone , then multiply by deriv. of inside.
 

Similar threads

Replies
19
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
Replies
26
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K