Understanding the Derivative of e^(x^x)

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In summary, the question involves finding the derivative of e(x^x). The solution involves using the chain rule and logarithmic differentiation, resulting in the derivative being x^x*e(x^x)[ln(x)+1]. The addition of x^x in the solution is due to the use of the chain rule.
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royisher
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Homework Statement



Problem: e(x^x)

The Attempt at a Solution



I came up with - f'(x) = e(x^x)[ln(x)+1]. The solution should be - x^x*e(x^x)[ln(x)+1] . Can someone please help me understand why should I add x^x to the solution.

Much appreciated!
 
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  • #2
You should use chain rule and logarithmic differentiation. First use the chain rule.
 
  • #3
Aha, so I should just apply it like that -

f(x) = e(x^x) -> f'(x) = e(x^x)

g(x) = x^x -> ln(g(x))=x*ln(x) -> g'(x)=x^x(ln(x)+1)

(f°g)'(x) = e(x^x)*x^x(ln(x)+1)

Thank you very much!
 

FAQ: Understanding the Derivative of e^(x^x)

What is the derivative of e^(x^x)?

The derivative of e^(x^x) is e^(x^x) * (2x + x^x * ln(x)). This can be found using the chain rule and the power rule for derivatives.

How do you find the derivative of e^(x^x)?

To find the derivative of e^(x^x), you can use the chain rule and the power rule for derivatives. First, rewrite the function as e^(u) where u = x^x. Then, use the chain rule to find the derivative of e^(u), which is e^(u) * du/dx. Finally, use the power rule to find du/dx, which is 2x + x^x * ln(x). This gives us the final derivative of e^(x^x) * (2x + x^x * ln(x)).

3. What is the significance of the derivative of e^(x^x)?

The derivative of e^(x^x) tells us the rate of change of the original function at any given point. It can also be used to find the slope of the tangent line to the function at a specific point. Additionally, the derivative can help us solve optimization problems and find the maximum or minimum values of the function.

4. Can the derivative of e^(x^x) be negative?

Yes, the derivative of e^(x^x) can be negative. This indicates that the function is decreasing at that point. It can also be positive, indicating that the function is increasing at that point. The derivative can also be zero, indicating a stationary point on the function.

5. How can the derivative of e^(x^x) be applied in real life?

The derivative of e^(x^x) can be applied in many real-life scenarios, such as in finance, physics, and engineering. For example, in finance, it can be used to find the rate of change of investments over time. In physics, it can be used to find the velocity or acceleration of an object at a specific point. In engineering, it can be used to optimize designs and find the maximum or minimum values of a function.

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