What is the quotient rule and how is it applied?

The quotient rule is a formula used to differentiate fractions that contain terms of x in both the numerator and the denominator (we usually refer to this as f(x)/g(x)).
As it isn't possible to differentiate this by normal methods straight away, we use the quotient rule to allow us to do so. For A-level maths, you only need to know how to use the quotient rule, deriving how it is formed is not necessary. The quotient rule takes the following form:
dy/dx = ((g(x)f'(x) - f(x)g'(x))/g(x)^2
Where f'(x), g'(x) are dy/dx of f(x), g(x) respectively. Therefore differentiating the numerator and the denominator seperately, and then plugging these back into the formula, will yield the result of differentiating a fraction of the form f(x)/g(x).

PH
Answered by Pete H. Maths tutor

4730 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Solve the differential equation dy/dx = 6xy^2 given that y=1 when x=2.


Find the coordinates of the point of intersection between the line L:(-i+j-5k)+v(i+j+2k) and the plane π: r.(i+2j+3k)=4.


Given y = 2x(x2 – 1)5, show that (a) dy/dx = g(x)(x2 – 1)4 where g(x) is a function to be determined. (b) Hence find the set of values of x for which dy/dx > 0


C1 - Simplifying a fraction that has a root on the denominator


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences