Table of contents
- 0. Functions7h 52m
- Introduction to Functions16m
- Piecewise Functions10m
- Properties of Functions9m
- Common Functions1h 8m
- Transformations5m
- Combining Functions27m
- Exponent rules32m
- Exponential Functions28m
- Logarithmic Functions24m
- Properties of Logarithms34m
- Exponential & Logarithmic Equations35m
- Introduction to Trigonometric Functions38m
- Graphs of Trigonometric Functions44m
- Trigonometric Identities47m
- Inverse Trigonometric Functions48m
- 1. Limits and Continuity2h 2m
- 2. Intro to Derivatives1h 33m
- 3. Techniques of Differentiation3h 18m
- 4. Applications of Derivatives2h 38m
- 5. Graphical Applications of Derivatives6h 2m
- 6. Derivatives of Inverse, Exponential, & Logarithmic Functions2h 37m
- 7. Antiderivatives & Indefinite Integrals1h 26m
- 8. Definite Integrals3h 25m
6. Derivatives of Inverse, Exponential, & Logarithmic Functions
Derivatives of Inverse Trigonometric Functions
Problem 3.10.61b
Textbook Question
Explain why or why not Determine whether the following statements are true and give an explanation or counterexample.
b. d/dx(tan^−1 x) =sec² x

1
Recall the definition of the derivative and the function involved: we need to find the derivative of the function y = tan^(-1)(x).
Use the derivative formula for inverse trigonometric functions, which states that d/dx(tan^(-1)(x)) = 1/(1 + x^2).
Compare the derived expression 1/(1 + x^2) with sec²(x) to see if they are equal.
Recall that sec²(x) is defined as 1/cos²(x), and consider the relationship between sec²(x) and the expression 1/(1 + x^2).
Conclude whether the original statement d/dx(tan^(-1)(x)) = sec²(x) is true or false based on the comparison and provide a brief explanation.
Recommended similar problem, with video answer:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
3mPlay a video:
Was this helpful?
Watch next
Master Derivatives of Inverse Sine & Inverse Cosine with a bite sized video explanation from Callie
Start learning