When given an equation in parametric form, how can you figure out dy/dx?

Assuming we are given that x = f(t) and y = g(t), we first differentiate x with respect to t to obtain dx/dt. Then, we differentiate y with respect to t to obtain dy/dt. Much like fractions, we can find dt/dx by finding the inverse of dx/dt (by doing 1 divided by dx/dt).

Now that we know how to figure out dy/dt and dx/dt, again similarly to fractions we can multiply these together. Note how the "dt"s cancel out and we are left with dy/dt.

Answered by Dave J. Maths tutor

3077 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

A circle has equation x^2 + y^2 - 8x - 10y + 5 = 0, find its centre and radius


How do I differentiate something in the form f(x)/g(x)?


Find the stationary points and their nature of the curve y = 3x^3 - 7x + 2x^-1


Given that y = (( 4x + 1 )^3)sin(2x), find dy/dx.


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