Derive the following with respect to x1: y=(x1*x2)/(x1+x2).

y is a function of x1 and x2. We are asked to derive y with respect to x1, meaning that x2 remains constant. 

Note that y' is the derivative of y.

Both the numerator and denominator of the fraction contain x1. Therefore, we will need to follow the quotient rule of differentiation.

dy/dx1=[ (x1*x2)' *(x1+x2) - (x1x2)(x1+x2)' ] / [(x1+x2)2] ,   

dy/dx1=[x2*(x1+x2)-(x1*x2*1)]/  [(x1+x2)2],

Therefore: dy/dx1=x2/(x1+x2)  -  x1*x2/(x1+x2)2

TK
Answered by Thaleia K. Maths tutor

7404 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I integrate ∫ xcos^2(x) dx ?


Show that the volume of the solid formed by the curve y=cos(x/2), as it is rotated 360° around the x-axis between x= π/4 and x=3π/4, is of the form π^2/a. Find the constant a.


How to calculate the inverse of a 2x2 matrix


Find the gradient of a curve whose parametric equations are x=t^2/2+1 and y=t/4-1 when t=2


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