What is the quotient rule and how is it applied?

The quotient rule is a formula used to differentiate fractions that contain terms of x in both the numerator and the denominator (we usually refer to this as f(x)/g(x)).
As it isn't possible to differentiate this by normal methods straight away, we use the quotient rule to allow us to do so. For A-level maths, you only need to know how to use the quotient rule, deriving how it is formed is not necessary. The quotient rule takes the following form:
dy/dx = ((g(x)f'(x) - f(x)g'(x))/g(x)^2
Where f'(x), g'(x) are dy/dx of f(x), g(x) respectively. Therefore differentiating the numerator and the denominator seperately, and then plugging these back into the formula, will yield the result of differentiating a fraction of the form f(x)/g(x).

PH
Answered by Pete H. Maths tutor

4925 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Integrate 3 sin(x) + cos(2x)


Find the stationary points of the curve given by the following function: f(x) = x^2 + 5x + 2


a typical question would be a setof parametric equations y(t) and x(t), asking you to find dy/dx and then the tangent/normal to the curve at a certain point (ie t = 2)


When calculating a question with a double integral question between two different ranges which range relates to which integration variable.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences