How to differentiate a bracket raised to a power i.e. chain rule

Lets say the equation to be differentiated takes the following format y = (ax2+bx+c)n, to find dy/dx: (1) Make u equal the contents of the bracket, u=ax2+bx+c. (2) Substitute the contents of the bracket with u, y=un. (3) Differentiate y with respect to u, dy/du=nu(n-1). (4) Differentiate u with respect to x, du/dx=2ax+b. (5) Because dy/dx=(dy/du)(du/dx), we can derive. (6) dy/dx=(nu(n-1))(2ax+b). (7) Finally, substitute u with ax2+bx+c, dy/dx=(n(ax2+bx+c)(n-1))(2ax+b).

DF
Answered by David F. Maths tutor

25394 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

A curve has equation x^2 + 2xy – 3y^2 + 16 = 0. Find the coordinates of the points on the curve where dy/dx =0


How do I use the chain rule for differentiation?


Find the stationary point(s) on the curve 2xsin(x)


Find the equation of the line tangential to the function f(x) = x^2+ 1/ (x+3) + 1/(x^4) at x =2


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