How do you find the stationary points on a curve?

Let y = f(x). The gradient of the tangent to the curve at a stationary point is equal to 0. To find an equation for the gradient of the curve, differentiate f(x) to get dy/dx. Because we are looking for stationary points, set the equation for dy/dx (the gradient) equal to 0. Rearrange to find the value(s) for x. Substitute the value(s) for x into the original equation for f(x) to find the corresponding y value(s). These are the stationary points on the curve.

CM
Answered by Caroline M. Maths tutor

3585 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Differentiate this equation: xy^2 = sin(3x) + y/x


How do I find the angle between 2 vectors?


The curve C has parametric equations x=2cos(t) and y=3cos(2t). Find and expression for dy/dx in terms of t.


What the integral of e^2x*x? (limits 0,1)


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning