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

7783 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

How can you remember what sin(x) and cos(x) differentiate or integrate to?


Show how '2sin(x)+sec(x+ π/6)=0' can be expressed as √3sin(x)cos(x)+cos^2(x)=0.


Express as a simple logarithm 2ln6 - ln3 .


Integrate the function (3x+4)^2 using methods of expansion and substitution


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