Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Chain Rule
The chain rule is a fundamental differentiation technique used when dealing with composite functions. It states that the derivative of a composite function f(g(x)) is f'(g(x)) * g'(x). In this problem, the chain rule helps differentiate the nested functions within y = (1/6)(1 + cos²(7t))³, particularly the inner function cos²(7t) and its outer cube.
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Derivative of Trigonometric Functions
Understanding how to differentiate trigonometric functions is crucial for solving this problem. The derivative of cos(x) is -sin(x), and when dealing with cos²(x), the power rule and chain rule are applied. Specifically, for cos²(7t), you need to differentiate using the chain rule, considering the inner function 7t and the outer square.
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Introduction to Trigonometric Functions
Power Rule
The power rule is used to differentiate functions of the form x^n, where the derivative is n*x^(n-1). In this problem, the power rule is applied to the function (1 + cos²(7t))³, where the exponent 3 is brought down, and the function inside is raised to the power of 2, followed by differentiating the inner function using the chain rule.
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