If y=(a^(Sinx)) where a and k are given constants, find dy/dx in terms of a and x

Here we have to differentiate a constant raised to the power of a variable. To make it easier, let u=sinx and so our function can now be treated as y=a^u. Remembering that A = e^(LnA), a^u = e^(Ln(a^u)). Using our log laws, we know that Ln(a^u) = uLn(a). This is now much easier to approach. Since a is a constant, Ln(a) is also a constant. Therefore the derivative (with respect to u) of e^(uLn(a)) is simply Ln(a)e^(uLn(a)). Remembering that a^u = e^(Ln(a^u)), we can rewrite this as Ln(a)a^u.
So we have worked out dy/du. Going back to our u=sinx, we know that du/dx=cosx.The question asks for dy/dx. Using the chain rule, we know that dy/dx = (dy/du)
(du/dx)
So dy/dx = Cos(x)Ln(a)(a^sinx)

MD
Answered by Maninder D. Maths tutor

3286 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

A curve is defined by the parametric equations x=t^2/2 +1, y=4/t -1. Find the gradient of the curve when t =2.


f ( x ) = 2 x ^3 − 5 x ^2 + ax + a. Given that (x + 2) is a factor of f ( x ), find the value of the constant a. (3 marker)


(i) Prove sin(θ)/cos(θ) + cos(θ)/sin(θ) = 2cosec(2θ) , (ii) draw draph of y = 2cosec(2θ) for 0<θ< 360°, (iii) solve to 1 d.p. : sin(θ)/cos(θ) + cos(θ)/sin(θ) = 3.


What is the difference between a scalar product and a vector product, and how do I know which one to use in questions?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning