Explain how Differentiation by the chain rule works

If the expression to be differentiated is a (differentiable) function of another (differentiable) function, then the chain rule must be applied. For example y= f(g(x)), where f and g are both differentiable, then dy/dx = f'(g(x)).g'(x). To simplify this, it can be looked at as a simple substitution:
Let g(x)=u, then, the chain rule states that, dy/dx=(du/dx).(dy/du). For example, should the expression to be differentiated be (cos(x))^2, then let u=cosx, du/dx = -sin(x), y=u^2, dy/du=2u, therefore dy/dx = -sin(x).2(cos(x)).

GO
Answered by Gwyndaf O. Maths tutor

3953 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Differentiation basics: What is it?


Differentiate 4(x^3) + 3x + 2 with respect to x


Using trigonometric identities, show that (cos(x) + sin(x))^2=1+sin(2x)


Find the two real roots of the equation x^4 - 5 = 4x^2 . Give the roots in an exact form. [4]


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