Show that the derivative of ln(x) = 1/x

We can start by letting y = ln(x)

What we are trying to show is that dy/dx = 1/x

Since y = ln(x), then e= eln(x) = x

Taking the derivative of each side of this equation will give us ey.dy/dx = 1

If we divide each side of this new equation by ethen we have that dy/dx = 1/ey = 1/x as required.

JC
Answered by James C. Maths tutor

9715 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Given that the curve y = 3x^2 + 6x^1/3 + (2x^3)/3x^1, find an expression for the gradient of the curve.


Express 6cos(2x)+sin(x) in terms of sin(x). Hence solve the equation 6cos(2x) + sin(x) = 0, for 0° <= x <= 360°.


What are the most important trig identities we need to know?


Three forces of magnitude 50N, PN, QN all act in a horizontal plane in equilibrium. The diagram shows the forces. DIAGRAM: QN = EAST, 50 = SOUTH, PN = 120 DEGREES ANTICLOCKWISE FROM QN a) Find P. b) Find Q.


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