Question:medium

The second-order derivative of which of the following functions is $5^x$?

Show Hint

When finding the second derivative of exponential functions like \( 5^x \), it is important to apply the chain rule properly. For each option, carefully differentiate, considering constants and the behavior of exponential functions. Pay special attention to terms like \( \ln(5) \), which will affect the derivatives but not change the fundamental behavior of the exponential function itself. If the second derivative doesn't match the desired form, eliminate that option.

Updated On: Apr 7, 2026
  • \( 5^x \log_e 5 \)
  • \( 5^x (\log_e 5)^2 \)
  • \( \frac{5^x}{\log_e 5} \)
  • \( \frac{5^x}{(\log_e 5)^2} \)
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

The objective is to identify the function whose second derivative is \(5^x\). We will evaluate each option.

Option (1): \(5^x \ln(5)\)

First derivative: \( \frac{d}{dx} \left(5^x \ln(5)\right) = 5^x (\ln(5))^2 \)

Second derivative: \( \frac{d^2}{dx^2} \left(5^x \ln(5)\right) = 5^x (\ln(5))^3 \). This is not equal to \(5^x\).

Option (2): \(5^x (\ln(5))^2\)

First derivative: \( \frac{d}{dx} \left(5^x (\ln(5))^2\right) = 5^x (\ln(5))^3 \)

Second derivative: \( \frac{d^2}{dx^2} \left(5^x (\ln(5))^2\right) = 5^x (\ln(5))^4 \). This is not equal to \(5^x\).

Option (3): \(\frac{5^x}{\ln(5)}\)

First derivative: \( \frac{d}{dx} \left(\frac{5^x}{\ln(5)}\right) = 5^x \)

Second derivative: \( \frac{d^2}{dx^2} \left(\frac{5^x}{\ln(5)}\right) = 5^x \ln(5) \). This is not equal to \(5^x\).

Option (4): \(\frac{5^x}{(\ln(5))^2}\)

First derivative: \( \frac{d}{dx} \left(\frac{5^x}{(\ln(5))^2}\right) = \frac{5^x \ln(5)}{(\ln(5))^2} \)

Second derivative: \( \frac{d^2}{dx^2} \left(\frac{5^x}{(\ln(5))^2}\right) = 5^x \). This matches the target derivative.

Therefore, the correct function is:

\[ \frac{5^x}{(\ln(5))^2} \]

Was this answer helpful?
3


Questions Asked in CUET (UG) exam