How do you differentiate 2 to the power x?

let y=2x                 {take natural logs of both sides}

ln y = ln(2x)          {use rules of logs to change right hand side}

lny = xln2              {differentiate implicitly}

1/y dy/dx = ln2    {make dy/dx the subject}

dy/ dx       = y ln2  {write y in terms of x)

dy/dx = 2x . ln2

Therefore derivative of 2 to the power of x is 2x . ln2

 

This can be generalised as the derivative of a to the power of x (where a is a constant, a>0)  is  ax lna

JR
Answered by Jack R. Maths tutor

155264 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

The curve C has parametric equations x=2cos(t) and y=3cos(2t). Find and expression for dy/dx in terms of t.


A particle P is projected vertically upwards from a point 20m above the ground with velocity 18m/s, no external forces act on it other than gravity. What will its speed be right before it hits the ground? Give your answer to one decimal place.


Show that Sec2A - Tan2A = (CosA-SinA)/(CosA+SinA)


How and when should I integrate by parts?


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