A curve has equation (x+y)^2=x*y^2, find the gradient of the curve at a point where x=1

  1. Differentiating left hand side: 2(x+y)(1+dy/dx) from the chain rule 2. Differentiating right hand side: y2+2xy(dy/dx) from the product rule 3. Equating sides and taking out factors of dy/dx to rearrange for dy/dx: dy/dx=[y2-2(x+y)]/[2(x+y)-2xy] 4. Substitute x=1 into original expression and solving for y (i.e. solving (1+y)2=y2) gives y=-1/2 5. Substituting x=1 and y=-1/2 into the expression for dy/dx gives dy/dx=-3/8
PK
Answered by Peter K. Maths tutor

3799 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why is the derivative of ln(x) equal to 1/x.


What is the sum of the first n terms of a geometric sequence and where does it come from?


Find the intergral of 2x^5 - 1/4x^3 - 5 with respect to x.


How do I rationalise the denominator of a fraction which consists of surds?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences