Answers>Maths>IB>Article

Differentiate x^3 + y^4 = 34 using implicit differentiation

An implicity function is one that is not expressed in the form y = f(x) such as the equation in the question. Instead of rearranging the equation to make y the subject, the equation can be differentiated using a technique called implicity differentiation. This involves differentiating each term on both sides of the equation. Differentiating x^3 will give 3x^2 and differentiating 34 will give 0. However differentiating y^4 will give (4y^3) X (dy/dx). This is achieved by using the chaing rule whereby d(y^4)/dx = (d(y^4)/dy) X (dy/dx).

OM
Answered by Olavo M. Maths tutor

2397 Views

See similar Maths IB tutors

Related Maths IB answers

All answers ▸

How do you calculate the probability P(X < x) for a normally distributed random variable X?


Which are the difference between polar and coordinate complex numbers?


The fifth term of an arithmetic sequence is equal to 6 and the sum of the first 12 terms is 45. Find the first term and the common difference.


Solve: 1/3 x = 1/2 x + (− 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