Find the normal to the curve y = x^2 at x = 5.

Differentiate the original equation (y = x^2) to find the gradient (m) of the line which is a tangent to the curve.

Dy/dx = 2x 

Therefore m = 2

Calculate the negative reciprocal (m2) which will give the gradient of the normal.

m2 = -0.5

Using the equation y=mx+c find the equation of the normal.

When x=5, y=25.

25=(-0.5)(5) + c

c=27.5

y=-0.5x+27.5

Answered by Aphisha S. Maths tutor

3337 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is a radian?


(M1) What direction does friction act in? What are the friction equations both generally and in limiting equilibrium? What does it mean for a system to be in equilibrium?


using integration by parts evaluate the integral of xsinx between x=0 and x =pi/2


The curve C has equation 2x^2y+2x+4y-cos(pi*y)=17 A) Use implict differenciation to find dy/dx B) point P(3,0.5) lies on C, find the x coodinate of the point A at which the normal to C at P meets the x axis.


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