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

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the fourth derivative of the function cos(2x). Participants are exploring the rules of differentiation applicable to this trigonometric function.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of the chain rule for differentiating cos(2x) and question the necessity of the product rule. There are attempts to clarify the steps involved in applying the chain rule.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the differentiation process, specifically highlighting the chain rule as the appropriate method. There is an ongoing exploration of the correct application of these rules without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of explicit equations provided by the original poster, and some participants are correcting each other's interpretations of the differentiation rules. The discussion reflects uncertainty about the initial steps in finding the derivatives.

Cacophony
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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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