Question

Can someone help me find the derivative of (2x-1)^5? I am having the trouble with the 5th power, without it (2x-1) i know that the derivative is 2 so is it 2^5? Just a bit confused!

Answer 1

You're going to need to use the chain rule on this one.

Answer 2

Chain rule? I will have to look that one up.

Answer 3

Basically the chain rule says that for composite functions, you multiply the derivative of each function.

So the derivative of (STUFF)^5 = 5(STUFF)^4 * d(STUFF)

It should be 5(2x-1)^4 * 2 or 10(2x-1).

Answer 4

I understand that if you do it that way it would be as if it was x^5...which would be 5x^4.....but where does the *2 come into play and the answer you have: It should be 5(2x-1)^4 * 2 or 10(2x-1).......how did you get 10(2x-1)......where did the ^4 go?

Answer 5

Oh, I forgot to toss it in. 10(2x-1)^4. Sorry about that.

The *2 comes in because 2 is the derivative of the inner function (2x-1).

Answer 6

Ok...so do I need to break it down more than that b/c I got some outrageous number:

160x^4-320x^3+240x^2-80x+10

Answer 7

Generally 10(2x-1)^4 will be sufficient as an answer and you won't need to multiply that out.

Answer 8

Ohhh ok awesome, Thank you sooo very much!

Answer 9

You're welcome.