What does dy/dx represent?

dy/dx represents the gradient of a curve. The d represents an infinitesimally small range so it is essentially as though you are doing change in y over change in x like you would for a y = mx +c graph but over a very small range. This is why if you work out dy/dx for a straight line you would get a number whereas for a curve you will get a function of x as the gradient of the line changes depending where on the curve you are. 

MD
Answered by Madeleine D. Maths tutor

33321 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Differentiate 2^x


Find the indefinite integral of sin(2x)(cos^2(x)) with respect to x.


Given y = 2x^2 + 3x + 2 find dy/dx


Find the equation of the tangent to the circle (x-3)^2 + (y-4)^2 = 13 that passes through the point (1,7)


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