Derivative of 1/x^n: Simplifying the Process

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In summary, the formula for finding the derivative of 1/x^n is d/dx(1/x^n) = -n/x^(n+1). This is because it follows the power rule for derivatives, which states that the derivative of x^n is equal to nx^(n-1). The derivative can be simplified further by factoring out a negative sign, resulting in n/x^(n+1). Taking the derivative of 1/x^n is significant because it allows us to find the instantaneous rate of change of a function, which has many real-world applications such as physics, economics, and engineering. It can be applied in real life to calculate the slope of a curve, find maximum or minimum values, analyze function behavior, and
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mbrmbrg
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If you want to take the derivative of [tex]\frac{1}{x^n}[/tex] do you turn it into x^-n and go from there or somhow use the fact that the anti derivative of 1/x is ln x?
 
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The fact that "the anti derivative of 1/x is ln x" is irrelevant to the anti-derivative of [itex]\frac{1}{x^n}[/itex]. Write as x-n. Because [itex]\frac{1}{x^n}= x^{-n}[/itex], the anti-derivative of 1 is the anti-derivative of the other.
 
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Thanks! :smile:
 

FAQ: Derivative of 1/x^n: Simplifying the Process

What is the formula for finding the derivative of 1/x^n?

The formula for finding the derivative of 1/x^n is d/dx(1/x^n) = -n/x^(n+1)

Why is the derivative of 1/x^n equal to -n/x^(n+1)?

The derivative of 1/x^n is equal to -n/x^(n+1) because it follows the power rule for derivatives, which states that the derivative of x^n is equal to nx^(n-1). In this case, n is a constant, so it remains unchanged while x^n becomes x^(n-1), resulting in -n/x^(n+1).

Can the derivative of 1/x^n be simplified further?

Yes, the derivative of 1/x^n can be simplified further by factoring out a negative sign, resulting in n/x^(n+1).

What is the significance of taking the derivative of 1/x^n?

The derivative of 1/x^n is significant because it allows us to find the instantaneous rate of change of a function, which is useful in many real-world applications such as physics, economics, and engineering.

How can the derivative of 1/x^n be applied in real life?

The derivative of 1/x^n can be applied in real life to calculate the slope of a curve at a specific point, find the maximum or minimum values of a function, and analyze the behavior of a function over time. It is also used in optimization problems to find the most efficient solution.

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