How would you differentiate a function such as 4x^3

The general rule for differentiating functions such as 4x^3 is called the power rule.This formula goes by dy/dx of [x^n] = nx^(n-1)Now this may seem complicated but with examples hopefully it should become more clear!For instance, in the example you have used which is 4x^3. You would take 3 as the value of n (as that is the power) and input this into the formula. This would then produce 34x^(3-1) which simplifies to 12x^2.Another example would be to differentiate 6x^-2. The power can be any value so the formula works in the same way! There you take -2 as n which produces, -26x^(-2-1). This simplifies to -12x^-3 which is the answer!

Answered by Adam W. Maths tutor

2766 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

If A is divided by B, the result is 5/7. If B is divided by C, the result is 4/5. What is the result of A divided by C ?


Write 2-(x+2)/(x-3)-(x-6)/(x+3) as a single fraction of ax+b/x^2-9. What is a and b?


Prove algebraically that 
(2n + 1)^2 – (2n + 1) is an even number for all positive integer values of n. (3 marks)


Simplify fully the following equation: X^2-2x-15/2x^2-9x-5


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