How do I differentiate a function of x and y with respect to x?

To differentiate a function of x and y, you must differentiate x as you would ordinarily, and then differentiate y as you would normally, but multiply the differentiated term by dy/dx. For terms with x and y in them, you must apply the product rule. Once each term has been differentiated, collect all the terms with dy/dx as a multiplier on one side of the equation and all the other terms on the other. Then, factorise the dy/dx side, and divide by what's in the brackets to get dy/dx on its own. You will then have the solution. This is called implicit differentiation.

HM
Answered by Hannah M. Maths tutor

28279 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

A ball is thrown in the air. The height of the ball at time t is given by: h=5+4t-2t^2. What is its maximum height? At what time does the ball reach this height?


A circle with centre C(2, 3) passes through the point A(-4,-5). (a) Find the equation of the circle in the form (x-a)^2 + (y-b)^2=k


œintegrate xe4x in respect to x


How to solve a quadratic equation?


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