How do I use the chain rule for differentiation?

Let’s say we’re given the equation y=(2x-6)^4we would know how to differentiate x^4, therefore we can take the substitution u=2x-6 to give us the equation y=u^4we then differentiate this equation (dy/du) to get 4u^3
However, we need dy/dx , and so we take the fact that dy/dx = (dy/du) x (du/dx)u=2x-6, therefore du/dx = 2And so dy/dx = 2 x 4u^3 = 8u^3

NA
Answered by Natasha A. Maths tutor

3317 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Express x^2-7x+2 in the form (x-p)^2+q where p and q are rational. Hence or otherwise find the minimum value of x^2-7x+2


An 1kg ball collides normally with a fixed vertical wall. Its incoming speed is 8 m/s and its speed after the collision is 4 m/s . Calculate the change in momentum of the particle. If the collision lasts 0.5 s calculate the impact force.


Differentiate the expression x^6+5x^4+3 with respect to x


make into a cartesian equation= x=ln(t+3) y= 1/t+5


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