Why do we get cos(x) when we differentiate sin(x)?

If we have an equation for a line, it follows a certain shape when put it on Cartesian axes. If we wish to find the value of the gradient of the graph at a certain coordinate, we can use differentiation to give us a numerical value. The easiest visualisation of differentiation is to look at the graphs y=sin(x) and y=cos(x). When we differentate sin, we get cos; as each cos point corresponds to the value of the gradient at each sin point. Where the gradient of sin is 0 (where the tangent to the curve is a horizontal line), for the same x value, the y value of a cos curve is also 0.

SH
Answered by Sophie H. Maths tutor

6844 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I tell if a curve has a maximum or a minimum?


How do you complete the square?


If 1/(x(a-x)) is equivalent to B(1/x + 1/(a-x)), Express 'B' in terms of 'a'


Express 3/2x+3 – 1/2x-3 + 6/4x^2-9 as a single fraction in its simplest form.


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