How do I use the chain rule for differentiation?

Let’s say we’re given the equation y=(2x-6)^4we would know how to differentiate x^4, therefore we can take the substitution u=2x-6 to give us the equation y=u^4we then differentiate this equation (dy/du) to get 4u^3
However, we need dy/dx , and so we take the fact that dy/dx = (dy/du) x (du/dx)u=2x-6, therefore du/dx = 2And so dy/dx = 2 x 4u^3 = 8u^3

NA
Answered by Natasha A. Maths tutor

3374 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Integrate ln(x/7) with respect to x


Pushing a mass up a slope and energy


Solve the equation sec^2(A) = 3 - tan(A), for 0<= A <= 360 (degrees)


Use logarithms to solve the equation 2^(5x) = 3^(2x+1) , giving the answer correct to 3 significant figures


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