How do you find the stationary points on a curve?

Let y = f(x). The gradient of the tangent to the curve at a stationary point is equal to 0. To find an equation for the gradient of the curve, differentiate f(x) to get dy/dx. Because we are looking for stationary points, set the equation for dy/dx (the gradient) equal to 0. Rearrange to find the value(s) for x. Substitute the value(s) for x into the original equation for f(x) to find the corresponding y value(s). These are the stationary points on the curve.

CM
Answered by Caroline M. Maths tutor

3506 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Find the area under the curve with equation y = 5x - 2x^2 - 2, bounded by the x-axis and the points at which the curve reach the x-axis.


Why is sin(t)^2 + cos(t)^2 = 1 true for all t?


Find the x and y coordinates of the turning points of the curve 'y = x^3 - 3x^2 +4'. Identify each turning point as either a maximum or a minimum.


Differentiate y=x^3*(x^2+1)


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