Work out the gradient of the tangent to the curve (y=x^2-x-2) at the point where x=2

y=x^2-x-2y=(x+1)(x-2)The gradient (dy/dx) measures the rate of the change in y with respect to x. So this can be used to help us find the gradient of a function at any point along it. The question asks the to find the gradient when x=2. So firstly we have to differentiate the curve.dy/dx=2x-1Then substitute the x value in: 2 (2) -1 = 3Therefore the gradient of the tangent is 3

OG
Answered by Oriane G. Maths tutor

4469 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

If a semi-circle has radius 4cm, work out the area of the semi-circle


Factorise and solve the quadratic equation x^2 + 6x + 8 = 0


Solve algebraically the simultaneous equations 2x+y=5 and 3x+y=7, for x and y.


A pen is the shape of an equilateral triangle. A goat is attached to a corner of the pen on a rope. The goat eats all the grass it can reach. It can just reach the opposite fence of the pen. What percentage of the grass in the pen does the goat eat?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning