Answers>Maths>IB>Article

Differentiation from first principles

Differentiaiton from principles requires the use of the following formula which is provided in the formula booklet:

f'(x) = limh->0 ((f(x+h) - f(x))/(h))

Consider a function:

f(x) = 6x2

Clearly we know that the function differentiates to:

f'(x) = 12x 

by using the process of multiplying the coefficient by the power and then reducing the power by 1.

Using first principles however we must consider the formula mentioned previously.

f'(x) = limh->0 ((f(x+h) - f(x))/(h))

By computing the function for x+h and x we get:

f'(x) = limh->0 (6(x+h)2 - 6x2)/(h))

f'(x) = limh->0 (6(x2+2xh+h2) - 6x2)/(h))

f'(x) = limh->0 (6x2+12xh+6h2) - 6x2)/(h))

f'(x) = limh->0 (12xh+6h2)/(h))

We now cancel the h from above and below to get:

f'(x) = limh->0 12x+6h

Now consider the limit as h-> 0, clearly 12x remains unaffected but 6h will become 0 and is hence removed. Hence we are left with:

f'(x) = 12x

Which we know to be true from the trivial methods of differentiation considered earlier. 

HS
Answered by Hanumanth Srikar K. Maths tutor

3596 Views

See similar Maths IB tutors

Related Maths IB answers

All answers ▸

The fifth term of an arithmetic sequence is equal to 6 and the sum of the first 12 terms is 45. Find the first term and the common difference.


Solve the equation 8^(x-1) = 6^(3x) . Express your answer in terms of ln 2 and ln3 .


How do you integrate by parts?


Find the constant term in the binomial expansion of (3x + 2/(x^2))^33


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences