113 LearnersLast updated on August 12th, 2025
Math Formula for Differentiation in
In calculus, differentiation is the process of finding the derivative of a function. It is essential for understanding the behavior of functions and their rates of change. In this topic, we will learn the formulas for differentiation covered in the syllabus.
List of Math Formulas for Differentiation
Differentiation is a fundamental concept in calculus. Let's learn the formulas to calculate the derivative of various functions.
Math Formula for Differentiation of Basic Functions
The basic differentiation formulas include:
1. The derivative of a constant function is zero.
2. The derivative of xn is nx(n-1), where n is a real number.
3. The derivative of ex is ex.
4. The derivative of ax is ax ln(a), where a is a constant.
Math Formula for Differentiation of Trigonometric Functions
The differentiation of trigonometric functions includes:
1. The derivative of sin x is cos x.
2. The derivative of cos x is -sin x.
3. The derivative of tan x is sec2 x.
4. The derivative of cot x is -csc2 x.
5. The derivative of sec x is sec x tan x.
6. The derivative of csc x is -csc x cot x.
Math Formula for Differentiation of Inverse Trigonometric Functions
The differentiation of inverse trigonometric functions includes:
1. The derivative of sin(-1) x is 1/√(1-x2).
2. The derivative of cos(-1) x is -1/√(1-x2).
3. The derivative of tan(-1) x is 1/(1+x2).
4. The derivative of cot(-1) x is -1/(1+x2).
5. The derivative of sec(-1) x is 1/(|x|√(x2-1)).
6. The derivative of csc(-1) x is -1/(|x|√(x2-1)).
Importance of Differentiation Formulas
In mathematics and real life, differentiation formulas are used to analyze and understand the behavior of functions. Here are some important points about differentiation:
Differentiation helps in understanding the rate of change of quantities.
It is used in various fields like physics, engineering, and economics to solve real-world problems.
By learning these formulas, students can easily grasp advanced calculus concepts.
Tips and Tricks to Memorize Differentiation Formulas
Students often find differentiation formulas challenging. Here are some tips and tricks to master them:
Use mnemonics to remember the sequence of differentiation formulas.
Practice derivations regularly to reinforce your understanding.
Create a formula chart for quick reference and use flashcards to memorize them.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them While Using Differentiation Formulas
Students make errors when applying differentiation formulas. Here are some mistakes and ways to avoid them:
Mistake 1
Misapplying the Power Rule
Students sometimes apply the power rule incorrectly by not reducing the exponent correctly. To avoid this error, remember that the derivative of xn is nx(n-1).
Mistake 2
Forgetting the Chain Rule
Students often forget to apply the chain rule when differentiating composite functions. Remember to differentiate the outer function and multiply by the derivative of the inner function.
Mistake 3
Confusing Trigonometric Derivatives
Students may confuse the derivatives of trigonometric functions. Memorize the derivatives of basic trigonometric functions like sin, cos, and tan.
Mistake 4
Neglecting Implicit Differentiation
For functions not explicitly solved for y, students forget to use implicit differentiation. Apply implicit differentiation when both x and y are present in an equation.
Mistake 5
Ignoring Constants in Derivatives
Students sometimes ignore constant multiplication in derivatives. Remember, the derivative of a constant multiplied by a function is the constant multiplied by the derivative of the function.
Examples of Problems Using Differentiation Formulas
Problem 1
Differentiate f(x) = x^3 + 5x^2 - 4x + 7 with respect to x.
The derivative is f'(x) = 3x2 + 10x - 4
Explanation
To differentiate, apply the power rule: f'(x) = 3x(3-1) + 5(2)x(2-1) - 4(1)x(1-1) + 0 = 3x2 + 10x - 4
Problem 2
Differentiate f(x) = sin x + cos x with respect to x.
The derivative is f'(x) = cos x - sin x
Explanation
Apply the trigonometric differentiation rules: The derivative of sin x is cos x, and the derivative of cos x is -sin x. So, f'(x) = cos x - sin x
Problem 3
Find the derivative of g(x) = e^x * ln x.
The derivative is g'(x) = ex * ln x + ex/x
Explanation
Using the product rule, where u = ex and v = ln x: g'(x) = u'v + uv' = ex * ln x + ex * (1/x) = ex * ln x + ex/x
Problem 4
Differentiate h(x) = x^2 * e^x with respect to x.
The derivative is h'(x) = 2x * ex + x2 * ex
Explanation
Using the product rule, where u = x2 and v = ex: h'(x) = u'v + uv' = 2x * ex + x2 * ex
Problem 5
Find the derivative of y = ln(x^2 + 1).
The derivative is y' = 2x/(x2 + 1)
Explanation
Using the chain rule: y' = d/dx [ln(x2 + 1)] = 1/(x2 + 1) * 2x = 2x/(x2 + 1)
FAQs on Differentiation Formulas
1.What is the power rule for differentiation?
2.How to differentiate a product of two functions?
3.What is the chain rule in differentiation?
4.How to find the derivative of a trigonometric function?
5.What is implicit differentiation?
Glossary for Differentiation Formulas
- Derivative: The derivative measures how a function changes as its input changes.
- Power Rule: A basic differentiation rule stating that the derivative of xn is nx(n-1).
- Product Rule: A differentiation rule used for finding the derivative of a product of two functions.
- Chain Rule: A method for differentiating composite functions.
- Implicit Differentiation: A technique for finding the derivative of a function defined implicitly.
Jaskaran Singh Saluja
About the Author
Jaskaran Singh Saluja is a math wizard with nearly three years of experience as a math teacher. His expertise is in algebra, so he can make algebra classes interesting by turning tricky equations into simple puzzles.
Fun Fact
: He loves to play the quiz with kids through algebra to make kids love it.
