Deriving the Double Derivative of tan(x)

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In summary, the conversation is about finding the second derivative of y=tan(x), which is needed to prove the equation 2y(1+y^2). The individual has successfully found the first derivative and is unsure of how to proceed with finding the second derivative. They are unsure if they should use the quotient rule or the chain rule, but they have managed to simplify the equation to 2sin(x)/cos^3(x). Another participant confirms that this is a correct second derivative.
  • #1
_wolfgang_
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Homework Statement


the question asked to prove that the double derivaitve of y=tan(x) is...
2y(1+y^2)
eg. 2tanx(1+tan^2(x))



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I was able to get the first derivative ( i think)
y=tan(x)
=(sin(x))/(cos(x))

dy/dx=(cos(x)cos(x)-(sin(x)(-sin(x))))/cos^2(x)
=(cos^2(x)+sin^2(x))/cos^2(x)
=1/cos^2(x)

from here i am not to sure how to get the second derivative...
 
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  • #2
So far so good, just differentiate cos-2x.
 
  • #3
So would i use the quotient rule to do that or something else?? like the chain rule??
 
  • #4
ok iv done that i get
2sin(x)/cos^3(x)
now iv got the double derivative i can't see how to simplify it to get 2tanx(1+tan^2(x))
 
  • #5
All I can tell is that

[tex]\frac {2 \sin x} {\cos^3 x} = \frac {2 \tan x } {\cos^2 x} [/tex]

is a correct second derivative.
 
  • #6
ok thanks for the help i should be able to get it from here
 

FAQ: Deriving the Double Derivative of tan(x)

What is the double derivative of tan(x)?

The double derivative of tan(x) is equal to -2sec^2(x)tan(x).

How do you find the double derivative of tan(x)?

To find the double derivative of tan(x), you first need to find the first derivative of tan(x) which is sec^2(x). Then, you take the derivative of sec^2(x) which is 2sec(x)tan(x). This gives you the double derivative of tan(x) = -2sec^2(x)tan(x).

What is the significance of the double derivative of tan(x)?

The double derivative of tan(x) can be used to find the rate of change of the slope of the tangent line at any point on the graph of tan(x). It can also be used to find the concavity of the graph.

Can the double derivative of tan(x) be negative?

Yes, the double derivative of tan(x) can be negative. This indicates that the slope of the tangent line is decreasing as x increases, and the graph is concave down.

Are there any real-world applications of the double derivative of tan(x)?

Yes, the double derivative of tan(x) can be used in physics, engineering, and other fields to calculate rates of change and optimize functions. For example, it can be used to find the maximum speed of a roller coaster or the optimal angle for a ramp.

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