Thread: Question on having the root of a variable in denominator

Hi, Ive just been learning how to do some derivatives and have become stuck on a question because i think I dont understand some algebra.

ok question is finding the derivative

v=1/SQRT(u)
d/du 1/SQRT(u)?

the answers say -1/(2u)(SQRTu)

I know that 1/SQRT(u) = SQRT(u)^-1 but to get u on its own would it then become u^-1.5? or u^-0.5? And I'm wondering is the answer a typo? I thought I knew the power rule and cant see how that answer can e right. I know this is calc now but Im posting here as Im missing some simple algebra/arithmetic

Originally Posted by camjerlams

Hi, Ive just been learning how to do some derivatives and have become stuck on a question because i think I dont understand some algebra.

ok question is finding the derivative

v=1/SQRT(u)
d/du 1/SQRT(u)?

the answers say -1/(2u)(SQRTu)

I know that 1/SQRT(u) = SQRT(u)^-1 but to get u on its own would it then become u^-1.5? or u^-0.5? And I'm wondering is the answer a typo? I thought I knew the power rule and cant see how that answer can e right. I know this is calc now but Im posting here as Im missing some simple algebra/arithmetic

All your considerations and calcuations are correct.



You differentiated the function correctly:

Ah I see, great thankyou.