How do I use the product rule for derivatives?

Imagine a function f(x)=g(x)*h(x)    [that is, two functions multiplied together]

To find the derivative, f'(x)=g'(x)*h(x) + g(x)*h'(x)    

For example, f(x) = (3x2)*(cos x )        [g(x)=3x2  , h(x)=cosx]

f'(x) = (6x)(cos x ) + (3x2)(-sin x )

        =6xcos(x) - 3x2sin(x)

JW
Answered by James W. Maths tutor

3719 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

What's the point of Maths?


Differentiate y = x^3 + 2x^2 + 4x + 7


Surds question 3 - C1 2016 Edexcel


Take the polynomial p(x)=x^4+x^3+2x^2+4x-8, use the factor theorem to write p(x) as two linear factors and an irreducible quadratic. An irreducible quadratic is a quadratic that can not be factorised.


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning