Explain the chain rule of differentiation
The chain rule can be used to find more complex derivatives.For example, in the case of: y = (5x + 2)5To find the derivative in the ordinary fashion, one would need to expand the brackets to:y=3125x5+6250x4+5000x3+2000x2+400x+32If you persevere to this point the risk of human error is huge, so clearly an easier method is needed.Enter the chain rule:dy/dx = dy/du * du/dxOne sets u = 5x + 2Now y = u5 and u = 5x + 2Differentiate y wrt u:dy/du = 5u4Differentiate u wrt x:du/dx = 5 Substitute u into dy/dudy/du = 5(5x+2)4Recall that dy/dx = dy/du * du/dx:dy/dx = 5 * 5(5x+2)4dy/dx = 25(5x+2)4The chain rule can be expanded with as many terms as possible, and this is useful when considering real life rates of change:dy/dx = dy/du1 * du1/du2 * du2/du3 * ... * dun-1/dun * dun/dx
Related Maths A Level answers
All answers ▸Represent in partial fraction form the expression x/x^2-3x+2
The curve C has equation y = (x^2 -4x - 2)^2. Point P lies on C and has coordinates (3,N). Find: a) the value of N. b) the equation of the tangent to C at the point P, in the form y=mx+c where m and c are constants to be found. c) determine d^2y/dx^2.
How can I remember the difference between differentiation and integration?
dy/dx of 2x (3x - 1)^5