How can I generalize the derivative of a reciprocal function?

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In summary, the person is looking for a formula that will give him the nth derivative of the reciprocal of κ'[x], which is a function that takes on the values 1/k'(x) for some unspecified k'(x). However, they don't know what K'(x) is.
  • #1
Aspiring
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Hi guys, I need help generalizing the derivative of the reciprocal of the function μ'(×).

What I would to find is a series representation whereby I don't have to find any derivatives of the function but merely replace powers and orders of derivatives.

Leibniz's series expression for the nth derivative of the two functions doesn't help nor the sum for the nth derivative of the composite of two functions( I forgot the name of the mathematician who derived it).

Any help would be appreciated.
 
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  • #2
Aspiring said:
generalizing the derivative of the reciprocal of the function μ'(×).

Before we go to far. Let's make sure you mean "reciprocal" and not "inverse function".

What I would to find is a series representation whereby I don't have to find any derivatives of the function.

If the series doesn't contain any expressions involving the derivatives of "the function", what is it allowed to contain? Try to state your problem clearly. As it reads now we have:

[itex] f(x) = \frac{1}{\mu'(x)} [/itex]

and you want some sort of series representation for [itex] f'(x) [/itex].

Are you talking about a power series?
 
  • #3
Not Quite; just a function that when I enter, say n=1 , as its argument it results in it's first derivative and so on. I don't want to calculate the function at points or find a power/Taylor series representation.

I have tried to generalize but I can't find a pattern, using the quotient rule to differentiate that is.

Any Help? :)
 
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  • #4
Aspiring said:
when I enter, say n=1 , as its argument it results in it's first derivative and so on
Which function is "it's"? [itex] f(x) [/itex]?
Show an example of what you tried -because you aren't expressing your goal clearly.
 
  • #5
Okay, let me clarify.

I wish to find a formula that will give me the nth derivative of the reciprocal of κ'[x].

Just as the the nth derivative of the function e^ax is given by a^n(e^ax); I'am looking for the equivalent with the above function. Whether the function for the nth derivative is as a sum or series of products, I'm happy.

I hope that helps.
 
  • #6
Aspiring said:
Okay, let me clarify.
I wish to find a formula that will give me the nth derivative of the reciprocal of κ'[x].
Hi !
This clarify nothing since nobody knows what K'(x) is.
 
  • #7
Are you looking for some the nth derivative of some function 1/k'(x)?
It wouldn't really differ from the formula of some function 1/f(x).
 
  • #8
Yes exactly! just k'(x) is not specified!

Surely it must be possible to find an nth derivative formula using the quotient rule?
 
  • #9
So basically, you want to find the general term of this pattern:

1/f(x) , -1/f(x)^2 * f'(x) , 2/f(x)^3 * f'(x)^2 - 1/f(x)^2 * f''(x) , ... ?

(where I start with 1/f, its derivative, its second derivative, ... up to the n-th derivative).


Honestly I don't know whether a simple formula exists, although I've heard of Fa di Bruno's more general formula for the n-th derivative of f(g(x)), which I absolutely don't understand.
 

FAQ: How can I generalize the derivative of a reciprocal function?

What is a derivative?

A derivative is a mathematical concept that represents the rate of change of one variable with respect to another. It is often used to describe the slope of a curve at a specific point.

How is a derivative calculated?

The derivative of a function is calculated using a mathematical formula that involves finding the limit of the function as the change in the independent variable approaches zero.

What is the importance of generalizing derivatives?

Generalizing derivatives allows us to apply the concept to a wider range of functions and equations, making it a more versatile tool in mathematical and scientific applications.

What are some real-world applications of derivatives?

Derivatives have many real-world applications, such as in physics to describe the motion of objects, in economics to model changes in supply and demand, and in engineering to optimize designs and control systems.

Are there any limitations to generalizing derivatives?

While generalizing derivatives allows us to apply the concept to a wider range of functions, there are limitations in terms of the types of functions that can be differentiated. For example, some functions may not have a derivative or may require advanced techniques to calculate the derivative.

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