What rules can be used to find the 4th derivative of cos(2x)?

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The fourth derivative of cos(2x) is 16cos(2x), derived using the chain rule. The first derivative is -2sin(2x), obtained by applying the chain rule to the function f(y) = cos(y) where y = 2x. The discussion clarifies that the product rule is unnecessary in this case, as there is no product of two functions involved. The correct application of the chain rule is essential for accurately finding higher-order derivatives of composite functions.

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Homework Statement



see title.

Homework Equations


no


The Attempt at a Solution



Ok so the solution is 16cos(2x) but I'm not sure how it is derived to that. I've tried the product rule but it's not working for me. What rule or rules do I use to get this solution?
 
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Well if you calculate the first derivative properly you should be yielded to -2sin(2x).
Edit: Take into consideration that the derivative of cos(Ux)= -u'(x)*sin(x)
 
Ok cool but what rule did you use there?
 
The chain rule.
 
You don't need the product rule because do not have a product of two functions of x. You need the chain rule because you have f(y)= 2cos(y) and y= 2x:
\frac{df}{dx}= \frac{df}{dy}\frac{dy}{dx}
With f(y)= cos(y), what is df/dy? With y= 2x, what is dy/dx?
 
HallsofIvy said:
You don't need the product rule because do not have a product of two functions of x. You need the chain rule because you have f(y)= 2cos(y) and y= 2x:
Make that f(y)= cos(y)
HallsofIvy said:
\frac{df}{dx}= \frac{df}{dy}\frac{dy}{dx}
With f(y)= cos(y), what is df/dy? With y= 2x, what is dy/dx?
 
Mark44 said:
Make that f(y)= cos(y)
Right. Thanks for the correction.
 

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