Explanation of a simple exponent rule in a derivative problem needed

In summary, the conversation discussed the use of the exponent rule in a derivative problem and how it can be applied to simplify the expression. The rule states that when multiplying like bases, the exponents can be added. This was demonstrated by simplifying the expression 9(t-2/2t+1)8 * 5/(2t+1)2 to 45(t-2)/(2t+1)10. This shows that the exponent 8 in the numerator combines with the exponent 2 in the denominator to give a power of 10 in the simplified form.
  • #1
AwesomeSN
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Explanation of a "simple" exponent rule in a derivative problem needed

After differentiation, I get this : 9(t-2/2t+1)8 * 5/(2t+1)2

Now this simplifies into 45(t-2)/(2t+1)10

Now, I am wondering what the property is that combines the exponent from the top with the bottom to get an power of 10 in the simplified form.

*Note. the t-2/2t+1 is t-2 over 2t+1, the 5/(2t+1)2 is 5 over (2t+1)2, and the 45(t-2)/(2t+1)10 is 45(t-2) over (2t+1)10.
 
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  • #2


From the rules of exponents:

[itex]a^n a^m = a^{n+m}[/itex]
 
  • #3


if you start with [tex] 9 (\frac{t-2}{2t+1})^8 * \frac{5}{(2t+1)^2} [/tex]
then you can write [tex] 9 \frac{(t-2)^8}{(2t+1)^8}* \frac{5}{(2t+1)^2} [/tex]
and then you add the exponents when multiplying like bases, thus getting [tex] 45 \frac{(t-2)^8}{(2t+1)^{10}} [/tex]

Note that [tex] (2t+1)^8(2t+1)^2=(2t+1)^{10} [/tex]

edit:
boo, pibond beat me cause I'm slow at latex! :P
 
Last edited:
  • #4


Thank you. I was aware of the rule for exponents, but applying the power of 8 to both the numerator and denominator escaped me, now it all makes sense!
 

FAQ: Explanation of a simple exponent rule in a derivative problem needed

What is a derivative in calculus?

A derivative in calculus is a mathematical concept that represents the rate of change of a function at a particular point. It is calculated by finding the slope of the tangent line to the function's graph at that point.

What is the exponent rule in a derivative problem?

The exponent rule in a derivative problem states that when taking the derivative of a variable raised to a power, the power can be brought down and multiplied by the derivative of the variable.

How do you apply the exponent rule in a derivative problem?

To apply the exponent rule in a derivative problem, first identify the variable raised to a power. Then, bring down the power and multiply it by the derivative of the variable. Finally, simplify the resulting expression.

Why is the exponent rule important in calculus?

The exponent rule is important in calculus because it allows us to easily find the derivative of functions involving variables raised to different powers. This is especially useful in more complex problems where the use of the exponent rule can simplify the calculations.

Can the exponent rule be used for any variable raised to a power in a derivative problem?

Yes, the exponent rule can be used for any variable raised to a power in a derivative problem as long as the variable is the base and the power is a constant. It can also be applied to multiple variables raised to different powers in the same function.

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