Why Is There a Contradiction in the Proof of the Derivative of lnx?

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter coki2000
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Derivative Proof
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the proof of the derivative of the natural logarithm function, specifically ln(x). The derivative is established as (lnx)' = 1/x through the limit definition involving the expression lim(n→∞) ln(1 + 1/n)ⁿ, which converges to the mathematical constant e. Participants highlight a perceived contradiction in using the derivative of ln(x) to define e, suggesting a circular logic issue. Alternative proof methods, such as using the binomial theorem, are also proposed to clarify this relationship.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus concepts, particularly limits and derivatives.
  • Familiarity with the natural logarithm function and its properties.
  • Knowledge of the mathematical constant e and its significance in calculus.
  • Basic understanding of the binomial theorem and series expansions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the proof of the derivative of ln(x) in detail using limit definitions.
  • Explore the properties and applications of the mathematical constant e.
  • Learn about the binomial theorem and its applications in calculus.
  • Investigate alternative proofs of the derivative of ln(x) using series expansions.
USEFUL FOR

Students of calculus, mathematics educators, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of logarithmic functions and their derivatives.

coki2000
Messages
91
Reaction score
0
The proof of derivative of lnx??

Hi all,
In proof of derivative of lnx,

\frac{d}{dx}(lnx)=\lim_{\Delta x\rightarrow 0}\frac{\ln(x+\Delta x)-lnx }{\Delta x}= \lim_{\Delta x\rightarrow 0}\frac{1}{\Delta x}\ln(1+\frac{\Delta x}{x})=\lim_{\Delta x\rightarrow 0}\frac{x}{\Delta x}\frac{1}{x}\ln(1+\frac{\Delta x}{x})=\lim_{\Delta x\rightarrow 0}\frac{1}{x}ln(1+\frac{\Delta x}{x})^{(\frac{x}{\Delta x})}

For \frac{x}{\Delta x}=n
\lim_{\Delta x\rightarrow 0}ln(1+\frac{\Delta x}{x})^{(\frac{x}{\Delta x})}\Rightarrow \lim_{n\rightarrow\infty}\ln (1+\frac{1}{n})^{n}

So
(lnx)'=\frac{1}{x}ln(\lim_{n\rightarrow\infty}(1+\frac{1}{n})^{n})=\frac{1}{x}

so we take the \lim_{n\rightarrow\infty}(1+\frac{1}{n})^{n}=e

But in proof of \lim_{n\rightarrow\infty}(1+\frac{1}{n})^{n} we take the derivative of lnx is \frac{1}{x}
(https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=348071)

Please explain to me this contradiction.
Thanks.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org


Do you mean the circular logic problem? e is defined as the number that makes the base log such that (log x)' = 1/x.

Alternatively, you could do a proof by the binomial theorem, and take the limit, you'll see the definition for e in series form.
 
Last edited:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K