Y = 2x arccos 3x Find the derivative

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the derivative of the function y = 2x arccos(3x). The discussion centers around the application of differentiation techniques, particularly in the context of inverse trigonometric functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss using the chain rule and implicit differentiation to find the derivative. Some suggest switching to a normal trigonometric function for simplification. There are also comments on the correctness of steps taken in the differentiation process.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing with various approaches being explored. Some participants have provided guidance on using trigonometric identities and implicit differentiation, while others have pointed out potential errors in the differentiation steps presented.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of confusion regarding the application of the chain rule and the handling of terms in the derivative. Participants are also considering the implications of using trigonometric identities in their approaches.

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Homework Statement


y = 2x arccos 3x Find the derivative. Can be left unsimplified.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



y = 2x arccos 3x
y = 2x arccos (u) u = 3x
dy/du = d/dx(2x)arccos (u) + 2x[d/dx(arccos (u)] du/dx = 3
dy/du = 2arccos(u) + 2x[-1/sqrt of (1-u^2)]
dy/dx = 2arccos(3x) + 2x[-1/sqrt of (1-(3x)^2)](3)
dy/dx = 2arccos(3x) - [2x/sqrt of (1-(3x)^2)](3)
dy/dx = 6arccos(3x) - [2x/sqrt of (1-(3x)^2)]
 
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Try using the definition of the inverse to switch to a normal trig function, then use implicit differentiation. You'll be left with a sin(something) in your solution, which you can evaluate by drawing a triangle & finding out its value and subbing that back into your equation, then just isolate dy/dx and simplify.
 
KMcFadden said:

Homework Statement


y = 2x arccos 3x Find the derivative. Can be left unsimplified.

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



y = 2x arccos 3x
y = 2x arccos (u) u = 3x
dy/du = d/dx(2x)arccos (u) + 2x[d/dx(arccos (u)] du/dx = 3
dy/du = 2arccos(u) + 2x[-1/sqrt of (1-u^2)]
dy/dx = 2arccos(3x) + 2x[-1/sqrt of (1-(3x)^2)](3)
dy/dx = 2arccos(3x) - [2x/sqrt of (1-(3x)^2)](3)
dy/dx = [STRIKE]6[/STRIKE] 2arccos(3x) - [[STRIKE]2[/STRIKE] 6x/sqrt of (1-(3x)^2)]
Some of your steps are strange, if not downright incorrect, [STRIKE]but you get to the correct result (with a corrected typo)[/STRIKE].

Edit: See the "strike out".

The first term should not be multiplied by 3. The second term should be.
 
Last edited:
e^(i Pi)+1=0 said:
Try using the definition of the inverse to switch to a normal trig function, then use implicit differentiation. You'll be left with a sin(something) in your solution, which you can evaluate by drawing a triangle & finding out its value and subbing that back into your equation, then just isolate dy/dx and simplify.
e^(i Pi)+1=0,

I would likely do this problem in a manner similar to what you suggest.

Yes. there will be a sin(something). However, after simplifying the something you have sin(arccos(3x)), which is \displaystyle \sqrt{1-9x^2\ }\ .
 
Thanks for the help guys.
 

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