Am I Solving These Calculus Derivative Problems Correctly?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the correct use of the product and quotient rules to find the derivatives of two different functions. The first function, F(x) = (xsinx)(cosx), requires the use of the product rule twice since the function contains two products. The second function, F(x) = xe^x/ x^2 + 1, requires the use of the quotient rule and a trick to make the process easier by rewriting the function in a different form. The conversation also mentions the use of the chain rule when dealing with more complex functions.
  • #1
cowgiljl
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Am I goong about these two problems correctly?
A) F(x) = (xsinx)(cosx) find F'(x)
f(x)*d/dx(g(x) + g(x) * d/dx F(x) product rule

F'(x) = xsinx d/dx (cosx) + cos x d/dx xsinx
= xsinx*(-sinx) + cos x *(xcosx)
= -xsin^2 x^2 + xcos^2 x^2 is that right

B) F(x) = xe^x/ x^2 + 1 find F'(x)
using the quotent rult formula
F'x) = [U]xe^x* d/dx (x^2 +1) - (x^2)* d/dx xe^x
(x^2+1)^2
xe^x(2x)-(x^2 + 1)(1e^x) / (x^2+1)^2
= (2x^2e^x) - (x^2e^x + e^x) / (x^2+1)^2
= x^2 + e^x / (x^2 +1)^2 is that right?

thank you for your help
joe
 
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  • #2
no
you are right about using the product rule.
F = (xsinx)(cosx)= (f(x)*g(x)) = pq
F' = f'(x)g(x) + f(x)g'(x) =p'q +q'p

where you are having trouble:
notice that p is a product of x and sinx, so when you find p' you need to use the product rule there as well.

for the quotient rule: p is the numerator, q is the denominator.
(p'q-q'p)/q^2

remember: if either p or q is itself a product or a quotient or a chain, you need to use the appropriate rule to find p' and q'

trick to make life (or at least derivatives of quotients) easier:
if you have to find F' of F=1/x you would use the quotient rule. to make it easier, notice that F=1/x =x^-1 . now you can use the power rule. if the denominator in F were something like F = (x+1)/(x-1)
that is the same as F = (x+1)(x-1)^-1 and now you would use the product rule. just remember that for q you need to use the chain rule. the quotient rule has just become useless! one less thing to remember for exams! yay!
 
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  • #3


A) Your solution for F'(x) is correct. You correctly applied the product rule and simplified the expression.

B) Your solution for F'(x) is also correct. You used the quotient rule correctly and simplified the expression. Good job!
 

FAQ: Am I Solving These Calculus Derivative Problems Correctly?

What is Calculus?

Calculus is a branch of mathematics that deals with the study of continuous change. It is used to solve problems involving rates of change, optimization, and motion.

What are the two main branches of Calculus?

The two main branches of Calculus are Differential Calculus and Integral Calculus. Differential Calculus deals with the study of rates of change and slopes, while Integral Calculus deals with the study of areas and volumes.

What are the applications of Calculus?

Calculus has many real-world applications, including physics, engineering, economics, and statistics. It is used to model and solve problems involving rates of change, optimization, and motion.

What are the fundamental concepts of Calculus?

The fundamental concepts of Calculus include limits, derivatives, and integrals. Limits are used to describe the behavior of a function as the input approaches a certain value. Derivatives measure the rate of change of a function. Integrals calculate the area under a curve.

How can I check my answers in Calculus?

You can check your answers in Calculus by using a graphing calculator, plugging in values to the original problem, or using online tools such as Wolfram Alpha. It is important to always double-check your work to ensure accuracy.

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