How do I use product rule when differentiating?

Problems like this usually look something like: Find the differential of (x2 e2x). The product rule is used when we have to differentiate two different functions multiplied by eachother, so we should always look for this when doing questions. In this example, the functions are f(x) = x2 , and g(x) = e2x. To differentiate this, we have to find f'(x) and g'(x), that is, the differential of the two functions. The product rule is f'(x)*g(x)+g'(x)*f(x). This looks daunting but it's not as bad as it seems.
The easy way to look at these questions is to just split the thing you're given into two parts, then differentiate those parts, and apply the formula. Like all maths questions the only way to get good is to practice a lot. So heres some examples!...

JK
Answered by Jasvir K. Maths tutor

3008 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

The curve y = 2x^3 -ax^2 +8x+2 passes through the point B where x = 4. Given that B is a stationary point of the curve, find the value of the constant a.


How do you integrate sin(3x)cos(5x)?


What are differences between speed and velocity, velocity and speed and acceleration?


Prove the change of base formula for logarithms. That is, prove that log_a (x) = log_b (x) / log_b (a).


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