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

3234 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

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


Prove by contradiction that 2^(1/3) is an irrational number


How and when should I integrate by parts?


Find the equation of the tangent to the curve y = 3x^2 + 4 at x = 2 in the form y = mx + c


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