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

4590 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Solve algebraically: 2x - 5y = 11, 3x + 2y = 7


How to solve pully type questions in mechanics


How to find and classify stationary points (maximum point, minimum point or turning points) of curve.


Find the centre coordinates, and radius of the circle with equation: x^2 + y^2 +6x -8y = 24


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