Solving Derivative Problem with Summation Function

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In summary, the conversation discussed taking the derivative of a summation function involving an exponential term. The original approach was to use the general rule for the derivative of an exponential function raised to a power, but the book used a slightly different method, changing the lower limit of the summation and omitting the negative sign. The reason for the lower limit change was that when n is 0, the term is 0. As for the missing negative sign, it may be due to a simplification or a different notation used in the book.
  • #1
Moneer81
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Hello,
I was trying to take the derivative of the following summation function:
[tex] f(\varepsilon)=\sum_{n=0}^\infty e^ \frac {-n\varepsilon} {kT} [/tex]

so since the derivative of an exponential function that is raised to a power and that power is function will just be the function itself times the derivative of the power, I figured that the answer would be"

[tex] \frac {df}{d\varepsilon} = \sum_{n=0}^\infty (\frac{-n}{kT}) . e^ \frac {-n\varepsilon}{kT} [/tex]

and then of course we can take the constants outside the summation

but to my surprise, the book did it this way:

[tex] \frac {df}{d\varepsilon} = \sum_{n=1}^\infty (\frac{n}{kT}) . e^ \frac {-n\varepsilon}{kT} [/tex]

so my question is how did the lower limit change from n=0 to n=1 and where did the minus sign (-n/kT) go? do these two have something to do with each other?

thanks a lot
 
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  • #2
Well, when n is 0 the term is 0 so that explains the limit change.
 
  • #3
actually I knew about the lower limit of the summation I don't know why I still asked the question :)

do you know where the minus sign went though ?
 

FAQ: Solving Derivative Problem with Summation Function

What is the purpose of using the summation function in solving derivative problems?

The summation function is a mathematical tool used to calculate the sum of a series of terms. In solving derivative problems, the summation function is used to find the derivative of a function that is defined as the sum of multiple terms.

How do you use the summation function to solve a derivative problem?

To use the summation function in solving a derivative problem, you need to first identify the function that is defined as the sum of multiple terms. Then, use the summation notation to represent the function and its terms. Finally, apply the derivative rules to each term and simplify the result.

Can the summation function be used to solve any type of derivative problem?

Yes, the summation function can be used to solve any type of derivative problem where the function is defined as the sum of multiple terms. It is a versatile tool that can be applied to a wide range of functions and expressions.

Are there any limitations to using the summation function in solving derivative problems?

One limitation of using the summation function in solving derivative problems is that it can only be used for functions that are defined as the sum of multiple terms. It cannot be used for functions that are defined as products, quotients, or compositions of other functions.

How can I check if my solution to a derivative problem using the summation function is correct?

You can check your solution by taking the derivative of the original function using the standard derivative rules and comparing it to the result obtained using the summation function. If they match, then your solution is correct.

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