What is the Value of dy/dx When y=1 in Implicit Differentiation?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around implicit differentiation of the equation y = ln(√(xy)) and finding the value of dy/dx when y = 1. Participants are exploring the implications of their differentiation approaches and the resulting expressions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss different methods of differentiation and the order of operations, questioning whether to substitute y = 1 before or after differentiating. There is a focus on ensuring the final answer is a numerical value rather than a function of x.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing feedback on each other's attempts and raising questions about the consistency of results obtained through different approaches. Some guidance has been offered regarding the order of operations in differentiation.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on the need for clarity in the differentiation process, as well as the importance of obtaining a numerical answer rather than a variable expression. Participants are also considering the implications of their assumptions in the context of the problem.

thereddevils
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Homework Statement



If [tex]y= \ln \sqrt{xy}[/tex] , find the value of dy/dx when y=1

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]\frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{xy}} \cdot \frac{1}{2\sqrt{xy}}\cdot (x\frac{dy}{dx}+y)[/tex]

[tex]\frac{dy}{dx}=\frac{1}{x}[/tex] , when y=1
 
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Looks correct so far.
Did you try plugging in y = 1 and simplifying?
 
You answer should be a number, not a function of x. Since y= ln(xy), when y= 1, 1= ln(x). What is x?
 
HallsofIvy said:
You answer should be a number, not a function of x. Since y= ln(xy), when y= 1, 1= ln(x). What is x?

this kept me wondering again , if i differentiate first , then plug y=1 in , i get dy/dx=1/x

and now , if i plug y=1 in first , and differentiate later ,

1= ln sqrt(x)

dy/dx=1/2x

Are they supposed to end up with the same result ?
 
In all such problems, you have to differentiate first, then substitute the values.
 

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