Trig Derivative: Understanding the Simplified Solution

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the differentiation of a vector function r(t) involving trigonometric functions and products of functions. Participants are examining the derivative v(t) and comparing their results with a provided solution from a textbook.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to differentiate the vector function r(t) and are questioning discrepancies between their results and the textbook's solution. There is a focus on understanding the application of the product rule in this context.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance regarding the differentiation rules, specifically noting the importance of the product rule. There is an ongoing exploration of the differences in results, with no explicit consensus reached yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework rules, which may limit the information they can share or the methods they can use. The discussion highlights confusion regarding the application of differentiation rules, particularly the product rule versus the chain rule.

yoleven
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Homework Statement


r(t)=(cos t +tsint)i + (sin t -tcost)j + 3k


Homework Equations


dr/dt=v(t)


The Attempt at a Solution


when I take the derivative of r(t) I get;
v(t)=(-sin t + tcost)i +(cos t +tsint)j

the book says;
v(t)=(t cos t)i +(tsint)j
could some one tell me why? Where did the -sint and the cos t go?
I guess it is an identity but I don't see it.
 
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yoleven said:

Homework Statement


r(t)=(cos t +tsint)i + (sin t -tcost)j + 3k


Homework Equations


dr/dt=v(t)


The Attempt at a Solution


when I take the derivative of r(t) I get;
v(t)=(-sin t + tcost)i +(cos t +tsint)j

the book says;
v(t)=(t cos t)i +(tsint)j
could some one tell me why? Where did the -sint and the cos t go?
I guess it is an identity but I don't see it.

Recall the chain rule to differentiate t sin t and - t cost t.

Example: to differentiate (t-1)t^2

= 1(t^2) + (t-1)(2)t
= t^2 + 2t(t-1)
 
Note that the rule in question is the product rule, not the chain rule.
 
Are you familiar with the product rule for derivatives? [tex]\frac{d}{dt}(uv)=uv^{'}+u^{'}v[/tex]

beat me to it :(
 
My bad, *product rule.
 
thank you.
 

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