The equation of a curve is y = x^2 - 5x. Work out dy/dx

This is an example of differentiation. This can be useful in many concepts, one being finding the gradient of a line or curve at a certain point. To differentiate these types of equations, the rule is to multiply the front by the power and to take one from the power!y = x^2 - 5xWe will take each part separately. Starting with x^2. We multiply the front (which is 1) by the power (which is 2), therefore the constant at the front is now 2. We take one from the power, so 2 - 1 = 1. Therefore the derivative of x^2 is 2x.Next we take 5x. Multiply the front (5) by the power (1), and take 1 from the power (1 - 1 = 0). Therefore the derivative of 5x is 5.Now, we put it all together! dy/dy = 2x - 5!

Related Further Mathematics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

The equation 3x^2 – 5x + 4 = 0 has roots P and Q, find a quadratic equation with the roots (P + 1/2Q) and (Q + 1/2P)


Lengths of two sides of the triangle and the angle between them are known. Find the length of the third side and the area of the triangle.


Given y=x^3-x^2+6x-1, use diffferentiation to find the gradient of the normal at (1,5).


Let y = (4x^2 + 3)^4. Find dy/dx.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences