How/when should I use the product rule for differentiation?

The product rule can be used to differentiate a function that is formed of the product of two other functions;

e.g f(x)=x2ex

the product rule is as follows; if f(x) is split up into u.v (in this case u would be x2 and v would be ex), the derivative of th whole function is (u.dv/dx) + (v.du/dx)

so in this case u=x2, following standard differentiation du/dx= 2x

v=ex, dv/dx=ex

u.dv/dx=x2ex

v.du/dx=2xex

so the whole function differentiated = ex(x2+2x)

 

AT
Answered by Abi T. Maths tutor

6054 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

(19x - 2)/((5 - x)(1 + 6x)) can be expressed as A/(5-x) + B/(1+6x) where A and B are integers. Find A and B


Prove that the square of an odd integer is odd.


How would I differentiate something with the product rule?


Particles P and Q of masses 0.4kg and m kg are joined by a light inextensible string over a smooth pulley. When released Q accelerates downward at 2.45ms^-2. Find m.


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