Use the chain rule to differentiate y=1/x^2-2x-1

First we will rewrite y so it is written with a power: y=1/x2-2x-1=(x2-2x-1)-1 Now let u=x2-2x-1 => du/dx = 2x -2 Writing y in terms of u: y=u-1 => dy/du= -u-2 = - 1/u2 using the chain rule: dy/dx = dy/du x du/dx =-1/ux (2x-2) substituting back in the value of u: =-(2x-2)/(x2-2x-1)= dy/dx

AP
Answered by Alicia P. Maths tutor

17716 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the equation of the normal line to the curve y = 3x^3 - 6x^2 at the point (1, 4)?


How can I get better at Mathematics? I am struggling with confidence and achieving low grades.


How do I multiply 2 matrices?


Why does the second derivative tell us something about a function?


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning