Math Problem Statement

Find the derivative of f(x) = 1/x^5 + 6/x^(3/2) - 2/(3x).

Solution

The question asks for the derivative of the function f(x)=1x5+6x3/223xf(x) = \frac{1}{x^5} + \frac{6}{x^{3/2}} - \frac{2}{3x}.

To solve this, let's differentiate each term of the function f(x)f(x):

  1. First term: 1x5\frac{1}{x^5}
    Rewrite as x5x^{-5}.
    The derivative is ddx(x5)=5x6=5x6\frac{d}{dx} \left(x^{-5}\right) = -5x^{-6} = -\frac{5}{x^6}.

  2. Second term: 6x3/2\frac{6}{x^{3/2}}
    Rewrite as 6x3/26x^{-3/2}.
    The derivative is ddx(6x3/2)=9x5/2=9x5/2\frac{d}{dx} \left(6x^{-3/2}\right) = -9x^{-5/2} = -\frac{9}{x^{5/2}}.

  3. Third term: 23x-\frac{2}{3x}
    Rewrite as 23x1-\frac{2}{3} \cdot x^{-1}.
    The derivative is ddx(23x1)=23x2=23x2\frac{d}{dx} \left(-\frac{2}{3}x^{-1}\right) = \frac{2}{3}x^{-2} = \frac{2}{3x^2}.

Now, putting all the derivatives together, we have:

f(x)=5x69x5/2+23x2f'(x) = -\frac{5}{x^6} - \frac{9}{x^{5/2}} + \frac{2}{3x^2}

Looking at the options provided in the image, the correct choice would be:

Option a: 5x69x5/2+23x2-\frac{5}{x^6} - \frac{9}{x^{5/2}} + \frac{2}{3x^2}

Would you like any further details on this solution? Here are some related questions:

  1. What are the rules for differentiating functions involving powers of xx?
  2. How can you simplify complex rational expressions?
  3. Can you explain how to differentiate negative powers of xx?
  4. What are the applications of derivatives in real-world problems?
  5. How does the chain rule apply to more complex functions?

Tip: When differentiating functions, always simplify the expression first for easier differentiation.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Differentiation
Power Rule

Formulas

d/dx[x^n] = n*x^(n-1)
Sum/Difference Rule for Derivatives

Theorems

Power Rule
Sum and Difference Rule

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12 (Advanced High School or Early University)