Time Derivative of ln: Solving $\frac{d}{dx} ln x$

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the time derivative of the expression ln(\frac{ct+\sqrt{(c^2t^2-s^2)}}{s}). The user applies the derivative formula \(\frac{d}{dx} \ln x = \frac{1}{x}\) and the chain rule but arrives at an incorrect answer. The correct derivative simplifies to \(\frac{1}{c\sqrt{c^2t^2-s^2}}\), indicating that algebraic simplification is crucial in this context. The conversation highlights the importance of applying logarithmic rules accurately in calculus.

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Homework Statement



what is the time derivative of the following expression: [tex]ln(\frac{ct+\sqrt{(c^2t^2-s^2)}}{s})[/tex]


Homework Equations



[tex]\frac{d}{dx} ln x = \frac{1}{x}[/tex]

chain rule

log rules eg ln (x/y) = ln x - ln y

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex] ln(ct+\sqrt{(c^2t^2 -s^2)})-ln s[/tex]

so time derivative is:

[tex] <br /> \frac{1}{ct+\sqrt{(c^2t^2-s^2)}}(\frac{1}{2}(c^2t^2-s^2)^{-\frac{1}{2}}2c^2t+c)-0[/tex]

using the above formulae. however the answer says [tex]\frac{1}{c\sqrt{c^2t^2-s^2}}...[/tex]


can anyone help?

thanks
 
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lavster said:

Homework Statement



what is the time derivative of the following expression: [tex]ln(\frac{ct+\sqrt{(c^2t^2-s^2)}}{s})[/tex]


Homework Equations



[tex]\frac{d}{dx} ln x = \frac{1}{x}[/tex]

chain rule

log rules eg ln (x/y) = ln x - ln y

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex] ln(ct+\sqrt{(c^2t^2 -s^2)})-ln s[/tex]

so time derivative is:

[tex] <br /> \frac{1}{ct+\sqrt{(c^2t^2-s^2)}}(\frac{1}{2}(c^2t^2-s^2)^{-\frac{1}{2}}2c^2t+c)-0[/tex]

using the above formulae. however the answer says [tex]\frac{1}{c\sqrt{c^2t^2-s^2}}...[/tex]
I don't see anything wrong with what you did. I suspect that all that you need to do is some algebraic simplification.
 

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