Why do we get cos(x) when we differentiate sin(x)?

If we have an equation for a line, it follows a certain shape when put it on Cartesian axes. If we wish to find the value of the gradient of the graph at a certain coordinate, we can use differentiation to give us a numerical value. The easiest visualisation of differentiation is to look at the graphs y=sin(x) and y=cos(x). When we differentate sin, we get cos; as each cos point corresponds to the value of the gradient at each sin point. Where the gradient of sin is 0 (where the tangent to the curve is a horizontal line), for the same x value, the y value of a cos curve is also 0.

Answered by Sophie H. Maths tutor

4246 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the normal distribution and how do I use it?


A stone is thrown from a bridge 10m above water at 30ms^-1 30 degrees above the horizontal. How long does the stone take to strike the water? What is its horizontal displacement at this time?


How do you differentiate (3x+cos(x))(2+4sin(3x))?


The circle (x-3)^2 +(x-2)^2 = 20 has centre C. Write down the radius of the circle and the coordinates of C.


We're here to help

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