What is the Derivative of Functions with Radical and Fractional Exponents?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around differentiating functions that involve radical and fractional exponents. The original poster presents several functions for differentiation and seeks assistance in applying the appropriate rules.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the chain rule, product rule, and power rule in differentiation. There are attempts to rewrite functions in a more manageable form for differentiation. Questions arise regarding the correctness of specific differentiation steps and the reasoning behind them.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the differentiation rules applicable to the functions presented. There is an ongoing exchange about the correctness of the solutions provided, with requests for clarification on specific steps and expressions.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses uncertainty about their solutions, indicating a need for further clarification and validation of their understanding of differentiation techniques. There is mention of potential confusion regarding the application of the chain rule and the rewriting of functions.

disfused_3289
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I'm having trouble with the following questions about differention with respect to x.

Differentiate with respect to x:

a)

y= 2/ (2x+3)^4

b)

y= x(x+1)^(1/2)

c)

y= (x +1)(x^2 + 3x)^3

d)

y= 3x^3 + 3x^(-1/2) + 2



Any help would be greatful
 
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Have you learned the chain rule yet?
 
disfused_3289 said:
a) y= 2/ (2x+3)^4
Re-write as;

y = 2(2x+3)^{-4}

And use the chain rule.

disfused_3289 said:
b)y= x(x+1)^(1/2)
c)y= (x +1)(x^2 + 3x)^3
Chain rule and product rule

disfused_3289 said:
d) y = 3x^3 + 3x^(-1/2) + 2
Just use the power rule.
 
Yes, I have learned chain rule

to differentiate from x you find dy/dx
 
Here are my solutions, I don;t know if they're correct

a)

y= 2/ (2x+3)^4

= -4(2x +5)^(-5) x 2 x 2

= -16/ (2x + 5) ^ (-5)

b)

y= x(x+1)^(1/2)

= ( x + 2) (x + 1)^ (1/2) / 2

d)

y = 3x^3 + 3x^(-1/2) + 2

= 3x^2 - 3/2x^(1/3)
 
Last edited:
disfused_3289 said:
Here are my solutions, I don;t know if they're correct

a)

y= 2/ (2x+3)^4

= -4(2x +5)^(-5) x 2 x 2

= -16/ (2x + 5) ^ (-5)
Almost, where's the +5 come from in the bracket? And are you sure that should be a -5?
disfused_3289 said:
b)
y= x(x+1)^(1/2)
= ( x + 2) (x + 1)^ (1/2) / 2
I'm not sure where your coming from with that, perhaps if you posted your steps?
 

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