The variable x=t^2 and the variable y=2t. What is dy/dx in terms of t?

This question may seem difficult but we just have to remember the rules of parametric differentiation and the chain rule.
The chain rules states that dy/dx=dy/dz*dz/dx where z is a third variable. Parametric differentiation incorporates the chain rule and states that if x=f(t) and y=g(t), where f and g are both functions of t, then dy/dx=(dy/dt)/(dx/dt).
The first step is to find dy/dt and dx/dt. If y=2t then dy/dt=2 by remembering differentiation rules and if x=t2 then dx/dt=2t. 
Now that we have dy/dt and dx/dt, the next step is to find dy/dx using the formula given in the definition. Therefore, dy/dx = 2/2t. The factor of 2 in the numerator and denominator then cancel so we are left with dy/dx=1/t. The question has asked us to leave the derivative in terms of t so we have no more steps left and we have answered the question. 

SK
Answered by Samradnyee K. Maths tutor

16410 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

solve the equation 2cos x=3tan x, for 0°<x<360°


Write 9sin(x) + 12 cos(x) in the form Rsin(x+y) and hence solve 9sin(x) + 12 cos(x) = 3


y=20x-x^2-2x^3. Curve has a stationary point at the point M where x=-2. Find the x coordinate of the other stationary point of the curve and the value of the second derivative of both of these point, hence determining their nature.


Differentiate 2x^3+23x^2+3x+5 and find the values of x for which the function f(x) is at either at a maximum or minimum point. (Don't need to specify which is which)


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