Consider the function f(x)=(2+x)ex. Determine the equation of the tangent line to f(x) in x=0.
(3+x)ex.
x+2.
The equation of the tangent line cannot be determined with only this information.
3x+2.
Correct: The tangent line is the form ax+b and goes through the point (0,f(0))=(0,(2+0)e0)=(0,2). We know that a=f′(0). Hence, we have to determine f′(x). Write f(x)=u(x)⋅v(x) with u(x)=2+x and v(x)=ex. Then it holds that (see possibly Derivatives of elementary functions):
u′(x)=0+1=1v′(x)=exf′(x)=u′(x)v(x)+u(x)v′(x)=1⋅ex+(2+x)ex=(3+x)exa=f′(0)=(3+0)e0=3.
The value of b can now easily be found, because (0,2) is a point on the tangent line:
3⋅0+b=2b=2.
Hence, the equation of the tangent line is 3x+2.
Go on.
Wrong: You have to give the equation of the tangent line, not the derivative.
See Derivatives of elementary functions: Example 2.
Wrong: You need the product rule to determine the derivative of f(x). Note that if f(x)=u(x)v(x), then
f′(x)≠u′(x)v′(x).
See Product rule.
Wrong: You have a sufficient amount of information.
See Derivatives of elementary functions: Example 2.