Prove that the d(tan(x))/dx is equal to sec^2(x).

You can express tan(x) as sin(x)/cos(x). Therefore, tan(x)= sin(x)/ cos(x)The quotient rule can be applied here as there is a function of x in the numerator and denominator.Quotient Rule: (v*(du/dx) - u*(dv/dx))/v2Let u =sin(x) and v=cos(x) and hence (du/dx)= cos(x) and (dv/dx)= -sin(x).Therefore:d(tan(x))/dx= (cos(x)cos(x))-(sin(x)(-sin(x))/(cos2(x))=(cos2(x)+sin2(x))/(cos2(x))Using the trig identity, cos2(x)+sin2(x)=1, the numerator of the fraction can be tidied and heavily simplified.d(tan(x))/dx= 1/(cos2(x))As 1/(cos(x)) is equal to sec(x), 1/(cos2(x)) is equal to sec2(x).

CU
Answered by Chinazam U. Maths tutor

19472 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

By using the substitution x = tan(u), find the integral of [1 / (x^2+1) dx] between the limits 1 and 0


The curve y = 4x^2 + a/ x + 5 has a stationary point. Find the value of the positive constant a given that y-ordinate of the stationary point is 32.


Differentiate y = x(x+3)^4


Integrate (12x^5 - 8x^3 + 3)dx giving the terms of the answer in the simplest terms


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