Solve for g(8) and g'(8) in f(g(x)) = x using the Chain Rule

In summary: The slope of a line is 1, the slope of a parabola is 2x, and the slope of a cubic is 3x^2. It goes up by one degree each time.In summary, the conversation is about finding the values of g(8) and g'(8) when f(g(x)) = x for all x and f(3) = 8, f'(3) = 9. The conclusion is that g(8) = 3 and g'(8) = 1, using the chain rule to determine the derivative of x.
  • #1
fiziksfun
78
0
ok so f(g(x)) = x, for all x.

f(3)=8
f'(3)=9

what are the values of g(8) and g'(8)

ok, so g(8) = 3

because f(g(8)) must equal 8, and f(3) = 8, so g(x) must equal three.

however, i have NO idea how to do g'(x)

i was thinking of using the chain rule, but this gets me nowhere..help!

f'(g(x))*g'(x) = 8 ?? is this correct?? then wouldn't g'(x) = 1 ??
 
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  • #2
chain rule
 
  • #3
fiziksfun said:
ok so f(g(x)) = x, for all x.

f(3)=8
f'(3)=9

what are the values of g(8) and g'(8)

ok, so g(8) = 3

because f(g(8)) must equal 8, and f(3) = 8, so g(x) must equal three.

however, i have NO idea how to do g'(x)

i was thinking of using the product rule, but this gets me nowhere..help!

f'(g(x))*g'(x) = 8 ?? is this correct?? then wouldn't g'(x) = 1 ??

Vid said:
chain rule
What fiziksfun wrote in his last line is the chain rule, not the product rule.
If (f(g(x))= x then f'(g(x))*g'(x)= (x)'= 1, not 8.
 
  • #4
the chain rule doesn't get me anywhere :[
 
  • #5
how do you know (x)' is equal to 1 ?
 
  • #6
Yea, I saw product rule in his post and just skipped over the symbols.
 
  • #7
oh wait, is it because d/dx(x) = 1 ?? YAY!
 
  • #8
Wow, that was fast!

I must admit that when you asked how I knew that the derivative of x was 1, I started to reach for my 2 by 4!
 

Related to Solve for g(8) and g'(8) in f(g(x)) = x using the Chain Rule

1. What is the chain rule in calculus?

The chain rule in calculus is a formula that allows us to find the derivative of a composite function, or a function within a function. It is used to find the rate of change of one variable with respect to another variable.

2. How do you apply the chain rule in a problem?

To apply the chain rule, you must first identify the inner function and the outer function. Then, take the derivative of the outer function, leaving the inner function unchanged. Finally, multiply the result by the derivative of the inner function.

3. Why is the chain rule important?

The chain rule is important because many real-world problems involve composite functions, and the chain rule allows us to find the derivative of these functions. It also helps us to understand the relationship between different variables in a problem.

4. Can the chain rule be applied to any function?

Yes, the chain rule can be applied to any function, as long as it is a composite function. This means that the function can be broken down into two or more functions, with one being inside the other.

5. Are there any shortcuts or tips for applying the chain rule?

There are a few shortcuts and tips that can make applying the chain rule easier. These include using the power rule and product rule for simple functions, and using the quotient rule for fractions. It is also important to carefully identify the inner and outer functions in a problem.

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