How do I use the product rule for derivatives?

Imagine a function f(x)=g(x)*h(x)    [that is, two functions multiplied together]

To find the derivative, f'(x)=g'(x)*h(x) + g(x)*h'(x)    

For example, f(x) = (3x2)*(cos x )        [g(x)=3x2  , h(x)=cosx]

f'(x) = (6x)(cos x ) + (3x2)(-sin x )

        =6xcos(x) - 3x2sin(x)

Answered by James W. Maths tutor

3223 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

The equation of a line is y=3x – x^3 a) Find the coordinates of the stationary points in this curve, stating whether they are maximum or minimum points b) Find the gradient of a tangent to that curve at the point (2,4)


Simplify the following algebraic fraction; (3x^2 - x - 2) / ((1/2)x + (1/3)).


A curve has equation y=2x^3. Find dy/dx.


Can you differentiate the following function using two methods:- y = e^(2x+1)


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