Explain how Differentiation by the chain rule works

If the expression to be differentiated is a (differentiable) function of another (differentiable) function, then the chain rule must be applied. For example y= f(g(x)), where f and g are both differentiable, then dy/dx = f'(g(x)).g'(x). To simplify this, it can be looked at as a simple substitution:
Let g(x)=u, then, the chain rule states that, dy/dx=(du/dx).(dy/du). For example, should the expression to be differentiated be (cos(x))^2, then let u=cosx, du/dx = -sin(x), y=u^2, dy/du=2u, therefore dy/dx = -sin(x).2(cos(x)).

GO
Answered by Gwyndaf O. Maths tutor

3918 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do you find the possible values of cos(x) from 5cos^2(x) - cos(x) = sin^2(x)?


A ball is projected vertically upwards from the ground with speed 21 ms^–1. The ball moves freely under gravity once projected. What is the greatest height reached by the ball?


Differentiate x^5 + 3x^2 - 17 with respect to x


Where does the circle equation come from?


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