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

27074 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do you find the integral of (2+5x)e^3x ?


Why is the derivative of a function its gradient?


y = arcsec(x), Find dy/dx.


In what useful ways can you rearrange 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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning