Math Problem Statement

For x > 0, find d/dx of log_x(e).

Solution

The problem presented is asking for the derivative of logx(e)\log_x(e) with respect to xx, where x>0x > 0.

The function is logx(e)\log_x(e), which represents the logarithm of ee (Euler's number) with base xx.

Step-by-step solution:

  1. Rewriting the logarithm:
    Recall that logx(e)\log_x(e) can be rewritten using the change of base formula: logx(e)=ln(e)ln(x)\log_x(e) = \frac{\ln(e)}{\ln(x)} where ln\ln represents the natural logarithm (logarithm base ee).

  2. Simplifying:
    Since ln(e)=1\ln(e) = 1, this simplifies to: logx(e)=1ln(x)\log_x(e) = \frac{1}{\ln(x)}

  3. Taking the derivative:
    Now we need to differentiate 1ln(x)\frac{1}{\ln(x)} with respect to xx. Using the chain rule, the derivative of 1ln(x)\frac{1}{\ln(x)} is: ddx(1ln(x))=1(ln(x))21x\frac{d}{dx} \left( \frac{1}{\ln(x)} \right) = -\frac{1}{(\ln(x))^2} \cdot \frac{1}{x}

  4. Final result:
    So, the derivative is: ddxlogx(e)=1x(ln(x))2\frac{d}{dx} \log_x(e) = -\frac{1}{x (\ln(x))^2}

This is the required derivative of logx(e)\log_x(e) with respect to xx.

Would you like further clarification or additional details on any step?

Here are five questions related to this topic:

  1. How do you differentiate logarithmic functions with different bases?
  2. What is the change of base formula and why is it important in logarithms?
  3. What role does the chain rule play in differentiation of logarithmic functions?
  4. How does natural logarithm ln\ln simplify differentiation in base ee?
  5. What is the significance of Euler’s number ee in calculus and logarithms?

Tip: When differentiating complex expressions, always look for ways to simplify the function first, such as applying logarithmic identities.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Logarithms
Calculus
Derivative

Formulas

Change of base formula: log_b(a) = ln(a)/ln(b)
Derivative of logarithmic function: d/dx [ln(x)] = 1/x

Theorems

Change of base theorem
Chain rule for differentiation

Suitable Grade Level

College Level Calculus