f(x) = sinx. Using differentiation from first principles find the exact value of f' (π/6).

The derivative of the function where x=π/6 is defined asThe limit as h->0 of [sin(h+π/6)-sin(π/6)]/hUsing the double angle formula, sin(h+π/6) = sin(h)cos(π/6) + cos(h)sin(π/6) = √3sin(h)/2 + cos(h)sin(π/6)The limit becomes [sin(h)/2 + cos(h)sin(π/6)-sin(π/6)]/hThe limit can be broken up into two partslim as h->0 of [cos(h)sin(π/6)-sin(π/6)]/h = 0 (could use l'Hospital's rule or half angle formula)lim as h->0 of [√3sin(h)/2]/h = 1/2 (small angle approximation)0+√3/2=√3/2

Answered by Maths tutor

7789 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Given that y = (( 4x + 1 )^3)sin(2x), find dy/dx.


State the conditions under which a binomial distribution can be approximated as a normal distribution, and state how the parameters needed would be calculated.


Differentiate the function y=(6x-1)^7


Find the equation of a Circle with centre (2,9) and radius 4.


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