Find the gradient of the tangent to the curve with the equation y = (3x^4 - 18)/x at the point where x = 3

y = (3x- 18)/x

The gradient of a tangent to a curve is equal to dy/dx 

However, we must simplify this equation before we can differentiate it;

y = 3x3 - 18/x = 3x3 - 18x-1

dy/dx = 3(3x2) - (-1)(18x-2)

= 9x2 + 18x-2 = 9x2 + 18/x2

When x = 3,

dy/dx = 9(9) + 18/9 = 83

RO
Answered by Rachel O. Maths tutor

4547 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

A curve C with an equation y = sin(x)/e^(2x) , 0<x<pi has a stationary point at P. Find the coordinates ofP?


A stone was thrown with velocity 20m/s at an angle of 30 degrees from a height h. The stone moves under gravity freely and reaches the floor 5s after thrown. a) Find H, b)the horizontal distance covered


OCR M2 A level maths June 2015 question 8


Using Integration by Parts, find the indefinite integral of ln(x), and hence show that the integral of ln(x) between 2 and 4 is ln(a) - b where a and b are to be found


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