f(x) = sinx. Using differentiation from first principles find the exact value of f' (π/6).

The derivative of the function where x=π/6 is defined asThe limit as h->0 of [sin(h+π/6)-sin(π/6)]/hUsing the double angle formula, sin(h+π/6) = sin(h)cos(π/6) + cos(h)sin(π/6) = √3sin(h)/2 + cos(h)sin(π/6)The limit becomes [sin(h)/2 + cos(h)sin(π/6)-sin(π/6)]/hThe limit can be broken up into two partslim as h->0 of [cos(h)sin(π/6)-sin(π/6)]/h = 0 (could use l'Hospital's rule or half angle formula)lim as h->0 of [√3sin(h)/2]/h = 1/2 (small angle approximation)0+√3/2=√3/2

Answered by Maths tutor

7784 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

A curve C has equation y = x^2 − 2x − 24 x^(1/2), x > 0 (a) Find (i) dy/d x (ii) d^2y/dx^2 (b) Verify that C has a stationary point when x = 4 (c) Determine the nature of this stationary point, giving a reason for your answer.


A curve has equation y = x^3 - 48x. The point A on the curve has x coordinate -4. The point B on the curve has x coordinate - 4 + h. Show that that the gradient of the line AB is h^2 - 12h.


Given that: 2tanθsinθ = 4 - 3cosθ , show that: 0 = cos²θ - 4cosθ + 2 .


Integrate ln(x)


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