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Last updated on July 19th, 2025

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Derivative of arcsin(2x)

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We use the derivative of arcsin(2x), which is 1/√(1 - (2x)²) * 2, as a tool to understand how the arcsin function changes in response to a slight change in x. Derivatives help us calculate the rate of change in various real-life situations. We will now discuss the derivative of arcsin(2x) in detail.

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What is the Derivative of arcsin(2x)?

We now understand the derivative of arcsin(2x). It is commonly represented as d/dx (arcsin(2x)) or (arcsin(2x))', and its value is 2/√(1 - 4x²). The function arcsin(2x) has a clearly defined derivative, indicating it is differentiable within its domain. The key concepts are mentioned below: Arcsine Function: arcsin(x) is the inverse of the sine function. Chain Rule: A rule for differentiating composite functions like arcsin(2x). Square Root Function: √(x) is used in the derivative formula for arcsin.

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Derivative of arcsin(2x) Formula

The derivative of arcsin(2x) can be denoted as d/dx (arcsin(2x)) or (arcsin(2x))'. The formula we use to differentiate arcsin(2x) is: d/dx (arcsin(2x)) = 2/√(1 - 4x²) The formula applies to all x where -1/2 < x < 1/2, ensuring the expression under the square root is positive.

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Proofs of the Derivative of arcsin(2x)

We can derive the derivative of arcsin(2x) using proofs. To show this, we will use trigonometric identities along with the rules of differentiation. There are several methods we use to prove this, such as: By First Principle Using Chain Rule We will now demonstrate that the differentiation of arcsin(2x) results in 2/√(1 - 4x²) using the above-mentioned methods: Using Chain Rule To prove the differentiation of arcsin(2x) using the chain rule, We use the formula: Arcsin(2x) = θ where sin(θ) = 2x Differentiating both sides with respect to x, d/dx(θ) = 1/√(1 - sin²(θ)) * d/dx(2x) Since d/dx(2x) = 2, d/dx(arcsin(2x)) = 2/√(1 - (2x)²) Thus, the derivative is 2/√(1 - 4x²).

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Higher-Order Derivatives of arcsin(2x)

When a function is differentiated several times, the derivatives obtained are referred to as higher-order derivatives. Higher-order derivatives can be a little tricky. To understand them better, think of a car where the speed changes (first derivative) and the rate at which the speed changes (second derivative) also changes. Higher-order derivatives make it easier to understand functions like arcsin(2x). For the first derivative of a function, we write f′(x), which indicates how the function changes or its slope at a certain point. The second derivative is derived from the first derivative, which is denoted using f′′(x). Similarly, the third derivative, f′′′(x) is the result of the second derivative and this pattern continues. For the nth Derivative of arcsin(2x), we generally use fⁿ(x) for the nth derivative of a function f(x) which tells us the change in the rate of change (continuing for higher-order derivatives).

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Special Cases:

When x is ±1/2, the derivative is undefined because arcsin(2x) has a vertical asymptote there. When x is 0, the derivative of arcsin(2x) = 2/√(1 - 0) = 2.

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Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Derivatives of arcsin(2x)

Students frequently make mistakes when differentiating arcsin(2x). These mistakes can be resolved by understanding the proper solutions. Here are a few common mistakes and ways to solve them:

Mistake 1

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Not simplifying the expression

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Students may forget to simplify the expression, which can lead to incomplete or incorrect results. They often skip steps and directly arrive at the result, especially when solving using the chain rule. Ensure that each step is written in order. Students might think it is awkward, but it is important to avoid errors in the process.

Mistake 2

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Forgetting the Domain of arcsin(2x)

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They might not remember that arcsin(2x) is undefined for x not in the range [-1/2, 1/2]. Keep in mind that you should consider the domain of the function that you differentiate. It will help you understand that the function is not continuous at such certain points.

Mistake 3

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Ignoring the Chain Rule

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Students often ignore the chain rule when differentiating composite functions like arcsin(2x). For example: Incorrect differentiation: d/dx (arcsin(2x)) = 1/√(1 - 4x²) without multiplying by the derivative of 2x. To avoid this mistake, ensure you apply the chain rule properly by differentiating the inner function.

Mistake 4

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Incorrect Use of Derivative Formula

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Some students incorrectly use the derivative formula for arcsin(x) instead of arcsin(2x), leading to miscalculations. Make sure to adjust the formula to account for the factor of 2x in arcsin(2x).

Mistake 5

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Not Applying the Square Root Appropriately

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Students sometimes forget to apply the square root to the entire expression 1 - 4x², leading to incorrect results. Ensure that you correctly apply the square root in the denominator as part of the differentiation process.

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Examples Using the Derivative of arcsin(2x)

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Problem 1

Calculate the derivative of arcsin(2x)·cos(2x).

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Here, we have f(x) = arcsin(2x)·cos(2x). Using the product rule, f'(x) = u′v + uv′ In the given equation, u = arcsin(2x) and v = cos(2x). Let’s differentiate each term, u′ = d/dx (arcsin(2x)) = 2/√(1 - 4x²) v′ = d/dx (cos(2x)) = -2sin(2x) Substituting into the given equation, f'(x) = (2/√(1 - 4x²))·cos(2x) + arcsin(2x)·(-2sin(2x)) Let’s simplify terms to get the final answer, f'(x) = (2cos(2x))/√(1 - 4x²) - 2arcsin(2x)sin(2x) Thus, the derivative of the specified function is (2cos(2x))/√(1 - 4x²) - 2arcsin(2x)sin(2x).

Explanation

We find the derivative of the given function by dividing the function into two parts. The first step is finding its derivative and then combining them using the product rule to get the final result.

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Problem 2

The height of a pendulum swing is represented by the function y = arcsin(2x), where y is the angle in radians and x is the horizontal displacement. If x = 1/4, find the rate of change of the angle with respect to x.

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We have y = arcsin(2x) (angle of the pendulum swing)...(1) Now, we will differentiate equation (1) Take the derivative of arcsin(2x): dy/dx = 2/√(1 - 4x²) Given x = 1/4 (substitute this into the derivative) dy/dx = 2/√(1 - 4(1/4)²) = 2/√(1 - 1/4) = 2/√(3/4) = 2/(√3/2) = 4/√3 Hence, the rate of change of the angle with respect to x at x = 1/4 is 4/√3.

Explanation

We find the rate of change of the angle at x = 1/4 by substituting the value into the derivative formula. This gives us the rate of change of the angle with respect to the horizontal displacement.

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Problem 3

Derive the second derivative of the function y = arcsin(2x).

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The first step is to find the first derivative, dy/dx = 2/√(1 - 4x²)...(1) Now we will differentiate equation (1) to get the second derivative: d²y/dx² = d/dx [2/√(1 - 4x²)] Using the chain rule, d²y/dx² = -8x/(1 - 4x²)^(3/2) Therefore, the second derivative of the function y = arcsin(2x) is -8x/(1 - 4x²)^(3/2).

Explanation

We use the step-by-step process, where we start with the first derivative. Using the chain rule, we differentiate 2/√(1 - 4x²). We then simplify the terms to find the final answer.

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Problem 4

Prove: d/dx (arcsin(2x)²) = 4arcsin(2x)/√(1 - 4x²).

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Let’s start using the chain rule: Consider y = (arcsin(2x))² To differentiate, we use the chain rule: dy/dx = 2arcsin(2x)·d/dx [arcsin(2x)] Since the derivative of arcsin(2x) is 2/√(1 - 4x²), dy/dx = 2arcsin(2x)·(2/√(1 - 4x²)) dy/dx = 4arcsin(2x)/√(1 - 4x²) Hence proved.

Explanation

In this step-by-step process, we used the chain rule to differentiate the equation. Then, we replace arcsin(2x) with its derivative. As a final step, we substitute the expression to derive the equation.

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Problem 5

Solve: d/dx (arcsin(2x)/x)

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To differentiate the function, we use the quotient rule: d/dx (arcsin(2x)/x) = (d/dx (arcsin(2x))·x - arcsin(2x)·d/dx(x))/x² We will substitute d/dx (arcsin(2x)) = 2/√(1 - 4x²) and d/dx (x) = 1 = (2/√(1 - 4x²)·x - arcsin(2x)·1)/x² = (2x/√(1 - 4x²) - arcsin(2x))/x² = 2x/√(1 - 4x²) - arcsin(2x)/x² Therefore, d/dx (arcsin(2x)/x) = 2x/√(1 - 4x²) - arcsin(2x)/x².

Explanation

In this process, we differentiate the given function using the quotient rule. As a final step, we simplify the equation to obtain the final result.

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FAQs on the Derivative of arcsin(2x)

1.Find the derivative of arcsin(2x).

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2.Can we use the derivative of arcsin(2x) in real life?

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3.Is it possible to take the derivative of arcsin(2x) at the point where x = ±1/2?

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4.What rule is used to differentiate arcsin(2x)/x?

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5.Are the derivatives of arcsin(2x) and arcsin(x) the same?

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Important Glossaries for the Derivative of arcsin(2x)

Derivative: The derivative of a function indicates how the given function changes in response to a slight change in x. Arcsine Function: The arcsine function is the inverse of the sine function, written as arcsin(x). Chain Rule: A differentiation rule used for composite functions like arcsin(2x). Square Root Function: √(x) is used in the derivative formula for arcsin. Quotient Rule: A rule used to differentiate functions that are ratios of two other functions.

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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.

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Fun Fact

: He loves to play the quiz with kids through algebra to make kids love it.

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