Chapter 2: Problem 13
Differentiate the function. \(A(s)=-\frac{12}{s^{5}}\)
Short Answer
Expert verified
The derivative of the function is \( A'(s) = \frac{60}{s^6} \).
Step by step solution
01
Rewrite the function
First, rewrite the given function in a form that makes it easier to differentiate. The given function is \[ A(s) = -\frac{12}{s^5} \] This can be rewritten using a power of a negative exponent for easier differentiation:\[ A(s) = -12s^{-5} \]
02
Apply the power rule of differentiation
Differentiate the function using the power rule, which states that if \[ f(s) = as^n \] then \[ f'(s) = nas^{n-1} \].For \[ A(s) = -12s^{-5} \], \[-12 \] is the constant, and \[-5 \] is the exponent. The derivative is:\[ A'(s) = -12(-5)s^{-5-1} \]\[ A'(s) = 60s^{-6} \]
03
Simplify the derivative
Simplify the expression obtained from the differentiation in the previous step. Rewrite the derivative in terms of positive exponents if needed:\[ A'(s) = 60s^{-6} \]This can also be expressed as a fraction:\[ A'(s) = \frac{60}{s^6} \]
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Power Rule
Differentiating functions often involves using the power rule, a fundamental concept in calculus. The power rule is a quick way to find the derivative of a polynomial function. It states: if you have a function of the form \(f(x) = ax^n\), its derivative is \(f'(x) = nax^{n-1}\). This powerful tool simplifies the process of differentiation by establishing a direct formula.
- Identify the coefficient \(a\) and the exponent \(n\).
- Multiply the exponent \(n\) by the coefficient \(a\).
- Subtract one from the exponent to find the new exponent for \(x\).
Negative Exponents
Negative exponents offer a compact way of expressing functions, especially for differentiation. When you encounter a negative exponent, it's important to understand its implications:
- A negative exponent \(x^{-n}\) equals \(\frac{1}{x^n}\).
- This transformation allows expressions to be rewritten, facilitating differentiation using standard rules like the power rule.
Derivatives
Derivatives represent the foundation of calculus, essentially measuring how a function changes as its input changes. When you differentiate a function, you're finding its derivative, providing insights into its rate of change. This is essential in various fields such as physics, engineering, and economics.To find a derivative:
- Start with rewriting the function if necessary (e.g., using negative exponents).
- Apply rules like the power rule to calculate derivative values.
- Simplify the resulting expression to its simplest form.
Function Rewriting
Function rewriting is a technique that transforms expressions into a more usable format, particularly for differentiation and integration. It involves adjusting the form of a function to simplify the application of calculus rules.
- Simplifies complex exponents or terms into manageable pieces.
- Makes application of rules like the power rule straightforward.
- Enhances clarity by standardizing expression forms.