How Do You Handle a Discontinuous Derivative in Calculus?

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In summary, the conversation is discussing the calculation of the derivative of the function x^2sin(1/x) and the use of the limit definition to determine its existence. The derivative is found to be -cos(1/x) + sin(1/x)(2x) and it is shown that the limit of this function as x approaches 0 does not exist. The conversation then moves on to discussing the limit definition and how it can be used to determine the existence of the derivative, with the ultimate goal of finding the derivative at x = 0.
  • #1
Arnoldjavs3
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Homework Statement



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The Attempt at a Solution


I know that if you derive x^2sin(1/x)
you get
-cos(1/x) + sin(1/x)(2x).
But what do I do from here? If I use the limit definition, i'll end up getting something like h(sin(1/h)) after evaluating. I still don't understand how the limit definition will show that this exists.
 
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  • #2
Arnoldjavs3 said:

Homework Statement



http://prntscr.com/czcn8h

Homework Equations


n/a

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that if you derive x^2sin(1/x)
you get
-cos(1/x) + sin(1/x)(2x).
But what do I do from here? If I use the limit definition, i'll end up getting something like h(sin(1/h)) after evaluating. I still don't understand how the limit definition will show that this exists.
Please show us what you did in using the definition of the derivative.

BTW, you don't "derive" x^2 sin(1/x) -- you differentiate it. If you start from a quadratic equation, you can use completing the square to derive the quadratic formula.
 
  • #3
You need to do two things

First show that ##\lim_{x\to 0}g'(x)## does not exist. That should be easy using the derivative you have calculated above.

Second, try to calculate ##g'(0)## which is defined as
$$\lim_{h\to 0}\frac{g(h)-g(0)}{h}$$
If that limit exists then you are finished.

The reference to the 'limit definition' in the question is a bit confusing as there are two different limits involved in this question. They are referring to the definition of the derivative as a limit (the second formula I wrote above), not to the limit of ##g'(x)## as ##x\to 0##
 
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FAQ: How Do You Handle a Discontinuous Derivative in Calculus?

1. What is a discontinuous derivative?

A discontinuous derivative is a type of derivative where the function does not have a defined derivative at a certain point or interval. This means that the function is not continuous at that point or interval.

2. How is a discontinuous derivative different from a continuous derivative?

A continuous derivative is a smooth function that has a defined derivative at every point. A discontinuous derivative, on the other hand, has a break or jump in the function at certain points, making it non-differentiable at those points.

3. What causes a function to have a discontinuous derivative?

A function can have a discontinuous derivative due to a variety of reasons, such as a sharp corner or cusp, a vertical tangent, or a jump in the function. These types of functions are not smooth and continuous, making it impossible to find a defined derivative at certain points.

4. Can a function have a discontinuous derivative at more than one point?

Yes, a function can have a discontinuous derivative at multiple points. This can occur when there are multiple breaks or jumps in the function, or when the function has multiple sharp corners or cusps.

5. How does a discontinuous derivative affect the graph of a function?

A discontinuous derivative can cause the graph of a function to have breaks, jumps, or sharp corners. This means that the graph will not be smooth and continuous, and will have distinct sections that may not be connected. It is important to note these points when analyzing the behavior of a function.

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