What is Differentiation?

We use differentiation to generally find the rate of change for a function. This could also be interpreted as finding the gradient of a curve. e.g. y = x ^ 2.

If you consider the curve, it has a different gradient at various points. We could draw a tangent at the point however a more accurate answer would be to differentiate.

There is a simple method to differentiate curves. We denote the differential of y as dy/dx.

Please feel free to message me to ask more details.

JP
Answered by Jigar P. Maths tutor

5230 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Given (x-2) is a factor of ax^3 + ax^2 + ax - 42, find the value of a


Why does adding a constant to a function's input (as in f(x-a)) shift the plot of the function along the x-axis?


Find the tangent and normal to the curve y=(4-x)(x+2) at the point (2, 8)


[FP2] Solve: 3 cosh x - 4 sinh x = 7


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