Differentiate y = (3x − 2)^4

We recognise that this is in the form of a function within a function, i.e u= 3x - 2 is within the u^4 function, therefore here we will use the chan rule to differentiate the equation. 

The chain rule states that dy/dx = dy/du * du/dx.

Here let u = 3x -2, then du/dx = 3. Similarly, y=u^4 so dy/du = 4u^3. Therefore dy/dx = 3 * 4u^3 = 12u^3.

Finally, we substitute u = 3x - 2 into the equation. This therefore gives us, dy/dx = 12(3x - 2)^3.

WI
Answered by Wajiha I. Maths tutor

15998 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Find the tangent to y = x^2 - 4x + 9 at the point (3,15)


Find the sum of the first n odd numbers, 1+ 3 + … + 2n-1, in terms of n. What might a mathematician’s thought process be?


Let p(x) =30x^3 - 7x^2 -7x + 2. Prove that (2x+1) is a factor of p(x).


Using the substitution x = 2cosu, find the integral of dx/((x^2)(4-x^2)^1/2), evaluated between x=1 and x=sqrt(2).


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