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    giant_bob's Avatar
    giant_bob Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Jul 19, 2007, 12:54 AM
    Second derivative
    Hello,

    I am wondering how to differentiate an equation when I have a power of x and a constant in the denominator, for example:

    y=a/(e^(x+b)+c), where a,b,c are any number bar zero.

    I could do it easily without that c there, but this has me stumpped.
    galactus's Avatar
    galactus Posts: 2,271, Reputation: 282
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    #2

    Jul 19, 2007, 04:27 AM
    Just use the quotient rule.



    Quotient rule:



    Now, simplify.

    Do it again for the second derivative.
    giant_bob's Avatar
    giant_bob Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Jul 19, 2007, 04:40 AM
    I thank you for your help once again kind sir.

    I am now testing your advice to see whether I can apply it to my problem, however, I have yet another question.

    I was under the impression that the quotient rule can only be used when there are powers of x in both the numerator and denominator, was I misinformed?
    Capuchin's Avatar
    Capuchin Posts: 5,255, Reputation: 656
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    #4

    Jul 19, 2007, 04:44 AM
    There are powers of x. .
    giant_bob's Avatar
    giant_bob Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #5

    Jul 19, 2007, 04:57 AM
    Ah, but of course. Thank you Capuchin.

    There is one thing I'd like to clarify though.

    I wouldn't use the quotient rule for something like a/x, however, I must use it in my question which is basically a/(x+b).

    Is it due to this b value that I now need to use the quotient rule?
    galactus's Avatar
    galactus Posts: 2,271, Reputation: 282
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    #6

    Jul 19, 2007, 01:19 PM
    No, the b is just a constant. You use the quotient rule when you have a quotient.

    You could also use the product rule.



    Product rule:



    Simplify and you'll get the same result as with the quotient rule.

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