ifferentiatio

Learning Objectives
• Understand and apply differentiation from first principles
• Find the derivative, f'(x) or of a simple function
• Use the derivative to solve problems involving gradients,
tangents and normals
• Identify increasing and decreasing functions
• Find the second order derivative, f"(x) or of a simple
function
• Find stationary points of functions and determine their
nature
• Sketch the gradient function of a given function
• Model real-life situations with differentiation
Teachers Notes
• You may have to revisit topics on surds and indices
before applying differentiation to functions in the
form xn.
 Prior Knowledge Check
1) Find the gradients of 3) Find the equation of the straight
these lines: line that passes through:
𝟏
(6,6
)
a) (0,-2) and
(6,1)
𝒚 =
𝟐
𝒙 −𝟐
𝟏 𝟏𝟕
4 4 b) 𝒚
(3,7) and (9,4) 𝟐
=− 𝒙 +
𝟐
1 6
𝟏 𝟏𝟓
-5
c) (10,5) and (-2,8)
𝒚 =−
𝟒
𝒙+
𝟐
5
-2/3 /3
1

2) Write each of these in 4) Find the equation of the

the form xn. 𝟐 perpendicular to the line at the
a) 𝒙 𝟏𝟎
b) 𝒙 𝟑 point (2,-1)
𝟏
𝒚 =− 𝒙
𝟐
c) d) 𝟑
−𝟏 𝟒
𝒙 𝒙
Teachings for
Exercise 12B
 Differentiation
• What can you say about
the gradient of the 𝒚 =𝒇 (𝒙)
graph to the right?

• How would you work out

the gradient at a
specific point?

• As the gradient
changes, there must be
a formula to calculate
the gradient, based on
the position on the
curve…
 Differentiation
y
• To the right is a part of a 𝒚 =𝒇 (𝒙)
graph.

• Imagine we want to
estimate the gradient

Change in y
between any 2 points on
the graph

𝐶h𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑦
𝐺𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡=
𝐶h𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛𝑥
Change in x
• Way too many words
here – lets use algebra! x
 Differentiation
y
• Algebraic version 𝒚 =𝒇 (𝒙)
Original New 𝒙 +𝜹 𝒙 , 𝒇 ( 𝒙+ 𝜹 𝒙 )
coordinate coordinate
(𝑥 , 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) ) (𝑥+𝛿 𝑥 , 𝑓 ( 𝑥 +𝛿 𝑥 ))

𝒇 (𝒙+𝜹 𝒙)− 𝒇 (𝒙 )
𝛿 𝑦 𝑓 ( 𝑥 + 𝛿 𝑥) − 𝑓 ( 𝑥 )
=¿
𝛿𝑥 𝛿𝑥

𝒙 , 𝒇 ( 𝒙) 𝜹𝒙
This means the
change in y x
divided by the
change in x
 Differentiation
y
𝛿 𝑦 𝑓 ( 𝑥 + 𝛿 𝑥) − 𝑓 ( 𝑥 )
=¿ 𝒚 =𝒇 (𝒙)
𝛿𝑥 𝛿𝑥
This however tells us the gradient 𝒙 +𝜹 𝒙 , 𝒇 ( 𝒙+ 𝜹 𝒙 )
between two points.

𝒇 (𝒙+𝜹 𝒙)− 𝒇 (𝒙 )
 What happens as we start to
consider finding the gradient at a
specific point?

 tends towards 0… This is what

that looks like…

𝛿𝑦 𝑓 ( 𝑥 + 𝛿 𝑥 ) − 𝑓 ( 𝑥)
lim
𝛿 𝑥 →0
=¿lim
𝛿 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿𝑥 𝒙 , 𝒇 ( 𝒙) 𝜹𝒙

The limit as tends towards 0 x

 Differentiation
y
𝛿𝑦 𝑓 ( 𝑥 + 𝛿 𝑥 ) − 𝑓 ( 𝑥) 𝟐
lim =¿lim
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿𝑥 𝟐
𝒚 =𝒙
Replace the 𝒙 + 𝜹 𝒙 , ( 𝒙+ 𝜹 𝒙 )
functions
𝛿𝑦 ( 𝑥+ 𝛿 𝑥 ) 2
− 𝑥
2

( 𝒙 +𝜹 𝒙 ) − 𝒙
lim =¿lim
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿𝑥 Expand
the
2 bracket
𝛿𝑦 2 2
𝑥 + 2 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥 +( 𝛿 𝑥 ) − 𝑥
lim =¿lim

𝟐
The x2
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿𝑥 terms
cancel

𝟐
𝛿𝑦 2 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥+ ( 𝛿 𝑥 )2 each
𝟐
lim =¿lim other 𝒙 ,𝒙
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿𝑥 𝜹𝒙
Divide
all by
𝛿𝑦 x
lim =¿lim 2 𝑥 +𝛿 𝑥
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥 →0 What happens as we approach a single point
instead of 2 separate ones?
𝛿𝑦
=2 𝑥
𝛿𝑥
 Differentiation
y
The function 𝟐
If: 𝒚 =𝒙
The gradient
Then: function (formula
for the gradient, in
terms of x)

Find the gradient of the curve at

the coordinate (3,9) The gradient at
𝛿𝑦 this exact point
=2 𝑥 is 6
𝛿𝑥
The x-coordinate at
𝛿𝑦 this point is 4
=2(3) 𝟑 x
𝛿𝑥
Calculate it!

¿6
 Differentiation
You can use algebra to find
the exact gradient of a
curve at a given point.

A point A with coordinates

(4,16) lies on the curve with
equation . At point A the curve
has gradient .
Be aware that
sometimes the letter h
is used to represent the
a) Show that change in x

b) Deduce the value of

12B
 𝛿𝑦 𝑓 ( 𝑥 + 𝛿 𝑥 ) − 𝑓 (𝑥)
lim = lim
𝛿 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥→ 0 𝛿𝑥
Differentiation
𝛿 𝑥 →0

We can use g to represent the gradient here

You can use algebra to find
the exact gradient of a 𝑓 ( 𝑥+ 𝛿 𝑥 ) − 𝑓 ( 𝑥)
curve at a given point. 𝑔= lim
𝛿𝑥→0 𝛿𝑥 Replace the value of
x, and use the
2 2
A point A with coordinates
( 4+ 𝛿 𝑥 ) − (4 ) function given in the
𝑔= lim question
(4,16) lies on the curve with 𝛿𝑥→0 𝛿𝑥
equation . At point A the curve Expand brackets
2
has gradient . 16 +8 𝛿 𝑥 +( 𝛿 𝑥 ) − 16
𝑔= lim
𝛿𝑥→0 𝛿𝑥
Group like terms
a) Show that 8 𝛿 𝑥 +( 𝛿 𝑥 )
2
𝑔= lim
𝛿𝑥→0 𝛿𝑥
b) Deduce the value of Divide all by
𝑔= lim ( 8+ 𝛿 𝑥)
𝛿𝑥→0

b) As the limiting value is 8, so the

gradient at point A is 8

12B
 Differentiation

𝛿𝑦 𝑓 ( 𝑥 + 𝛿 𝑥 ) − 𝑓 (𝑥)
lim = lim
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥→ 0 𝛿𝑥
Can you find a formula for the gradient for each of these curves
using the method shown? Use it to find the gradient where x = 2
for each!

a) b) c) d) e)
Practice Questions
Questions
1. Exercise 12B

Answers
1. Exercise 12B
Teachings for
Exercise 12C
 Differentiation
You can use the definition of
the derivative to find an
expression for the derivative
of where is any number.

As a general rule, to differentiate

a function…
The function
If
If Its derivative (formula for the
gradient, in terms of x)
Then Then
Gottfried
Leibniz’s
notation
The letter d is commonly used to
indicate that the ‘tending to 0’ from Joseph
section B has ‘happened’… (as Lagrange’s
opposed to ) notation
Both types of notation are still used so you need to be familiar with both
12C
 Differentiation
You can use the definition of a) Multiply by the
the derivative to find an power and reduce it
5
expression for the derivative 𝑓 ′ ( 𝑥 ) =6 𝑥 by 1
of where is any number.

Find for each of the expressions b)

for to the right. Multiply by the
1 power and reduce it
1 −
𝑓 ′ ( 𝑥)= 𝑥 2 by 1
If 2 You need to be able to rewrite
this. This of it as two fractions
1 multiplied together
1 −
Then ¿ ×𝑥 2
2
Rewrite the second using
1 1 index rules
¿ ×
2 √𝑥
Group
1 together
¿
2 √𝑥

12C
 Differentiation
You can use the definition of c) Multiply by the
the derivative to find an power and reduce it
−3
expression for the derivative 𝑓 ′ ( 𝑥 ) =−2 𝑥 by 1
of where is any number. Think of it as 2
terms multiplied
¿ − 2× 𝑥 −3 together
Find for each of the expressions 1 Rewrite the second
¿ − 2× 3
for to the right. 𝑥
Group
2 together
¿− 3
If 𝑥

Then

12C
 Differentiation
You can use the definition of d)
the derivative to find an Multiply terms together
expression for the derivative 5
𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) =𝑥 first
of where is any number. Multiply by the
′ 4 power and reduce it
𝑓 ( 𝑥)=5 𝑥 by 1
Find for each of the expressions
for to the right.

If

Then

12C
 Differentiation
You can use the definition of e)
the derivative to find an Rewrite
expression for the derivative −4
of where is any number. 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) =𝑥
Differentiate
−5
𝑓 ′ ( 𝑥 ) =− 4 𝑥
Think of it as 2 terms
Find for each of the expressions
−5 multiplied together
for to the right. ¿−4×𝑥
1 Rewrite the second
If
¿−4× 5 term
𝑥
Group together
4
Then ¿− 5
𝑥

12C
 Differentiation
You can use the definition of f)
the derivative to find an Differentiate
expression for the derivative 2
of where is any number. 𝑓 ′ ( 𝑥 ) =21 𝑥

Find for each of the expressions

for to the right.

If

Then

12C
 Differentiation
You can use the definition of g)
the derivative to find an Differentiate
expression for the derivative 1
−
of where is any number. 𝑓 ′ ( 𝑥 ) =−2 𝑥 2

This of it as 2 terms
−
1 multiplied together
Find for each of the expressions 2
for to the right.
¿ − 2× 𝑥
Rewrite the
1 second term
¿ − 2×
If √𝑥
Group together
Then
2
¿−
√𝑥

12C
 Differentiation
You can use the definition of h)
the derivative to find an
expression for the derivative Rewrite
of where is any number. 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) =√ 36 √ 𝑥 3

Square root each part /

3 rewrite using indices
2
Find for each of the expressions 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) =6 𝑥
for to the right. Differentiate
1
2
𝑓 ′ ( 𝑥 ) =9 𝑥
If Rewrite
¿9 √𝑥
Then

12C
 Differentiation
As you have also learnt about the binomial expansion, we can
prove the differentiation rule for any power of x…

𝑛
𝐼𝑓 : 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) =𝑎𝑥

𝑛−1
𝑇h𝑒𝑛 : 𝑓 ′ ( 𝑥 )=𝑛𝑎𝑥

12C
 Differentiation
𝑛
(𝑎 +𝑏)
+𝑛(𝑛 −1) 𝑛 − 2 +𝑛(𝑛 −1)(𝑛 − 2) 𝑛 −3 3
𝑛
¿ 𝑎 +𝑛 𝑎 𝑛−1
𝑏 2! 𝑎 𝑏 2
3!
𝑎 +…
𝑏 … …
+
( )
𝑛
𝑛
𝑏
𝑛

 Calculate the first 4 terms in the expansion of:

8
( 𝑥+ 𝑦 )
8 +8 (7) 6 +8
7 2 (7)(6) 5 3
¿ 𝑥+ 8 𝑥 𝑦 2 𝑥 𝑦 𝑥 𝑦
6

¿ 𝑥 + 8 𝑥 𝑦+28 𝑥 𝑦 +56 𝑥 5 𝑦 3
8 7 6 2

12C
 Differentiation
y
𝒏
If: 𝒇 ( 𝒙)=𝒂𝒙

𝒙 +𝜹 𝒙 , 𝒂 ( 𝒙 +𝜹 𝒙 )𝒏
𝛿𝑦 𝑎 ( 𝑥 + 𝛿 𝑥 )𝑛 − 𝑎𝑥𝑛
lim =¿lim

𝒂 ( 𝒙+𝜹 𝒙 ) − 𝒂𝒙
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿𝑥

Now we need the

binomial expansion…

𝒏
𝒏
𝒙 , 𝒂𝒙

𝒏
𝜹𝒙
x

12C
 Differentiation

If:
Let’s rewrite the bracket
using the binomial
𝛿𝑦 𝑎 ( 𝑥 + 𝛿 𝑥 )𝑛 − 𝑎𝑥𝑛 expansion
lim =¿lim
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿𝑥

( 𝑥+ 𝛿 𝑥 )𝑛

(1 ) ( ) ( )
𝑛− 1 𝑛− 2 𝑛− 3

¿𝑥
𝑛 𝑛 𝑥
+ + 𝑛 𝑥
( 𝛿 𝑥) ( 𝛿 𝑥)+ 𝑛 𝑥
2 3
( 𝛿 𝑥)+ … … …+( 𝛿 𝑥)
𝑛
2 3

𝑛 −2 𝑛− 3
𝑛 𝑛− 1 𝑛(𝑛 −1) 2𝑛(𝑛 −1)(𝑛 − 2) 3
¿ 𝑥+𝑛𝑥 +
( 𝛿 𝑥) 2 𝑥 ( 𝛿 𝑥+) 𝑥 ( 𝛿 𝑥+) … … …+( 𝛿 𝑥)𝑛
6

12C
 Differentiation

If:

𝛿𝑦 𝑎 ( 𝑥 + 𝛿 𝑥 )𝑛 − 𝑎𝑥𝑛
lim =¿lim Replace
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿 𝑥 𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿𝑥 the
𝑛 −2 bracket
𝑛 ( 𝑛 − 1 )
𝑎 ( 𝑥 𝑛 +𝑛𝑥 𝑛 −1 ( 𝛿 𝑥 ) + 𝑥 ( 𝛿 𝑥 ) 2+.. .. ..+( 𝛿 𝑥 )𝑛 )− 𝑎𝑥 𝑛with the
2 expansion
¿ lim
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿𝑥
Multiply
𝑎 𝑛 ( 𝑛 −1 )
𝑛− 2 out
𝑛 𝑛 −1
𝑎 𝑥 + 𝑎 𝑛𝑥 ( 𝛿 𝑥) + 𝑥 ( 𝛿 𝑥 )2 +.... ..+𝑎 ( 𝛿 𝑥)𝑛 − 𝑎𝑥 𝑛
2
¿ lim
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿𝑥
Group
terms
𝑛 −1 𝑎 𝑛 ( 𝑛 − 1 ) 𝑛 −2
𝑎 𝑛𝑥 (𝛿 𝑥 )+ 𝑥 ( 𝛿 𝑥 )2+ .... ..+𝑎 ( 𝛿 𝑥)𝑛
2
¿ lim
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿𝑥

12C
 Differentiation

If:
1 n-1
𝑛 −1 𝑎 𝑛 ( 𝑛 − 1 ) 𝑛 −2
𝛿𝑦 𝑎 𝑛𝑥 ( 𝛿 𝑥 )+ 𝑥 ( 𝛿 𝑥 )2 +.. .. ..+ 𝑎 ( 𝛿 𝑥)𝑛
lim =¿ 2
lim
𝛿 𝑥 →0 𝛿𝛿𝑥𝑥 →0 𝛿𝑥
Divide all
by
𝑛 −2
𝛿𝑦 𝑛− 1 𝑎𝑛 ( 𝑛 −1 )
lim¿ lim 𝑎𝑛𝑥 + 𝑥 ( 𝛿 𝑥 )+ .... ..+𝑎 ( 𝛿 𝑥)𝑛 − 1 As tends
𝛿 𝑥 →0𝛿 𝛿 𝑥
𝑥 →0 2
towards, 0,
any terms
𝛿𝑦 𝑛 −1
including it
𝛿𝑥¿ 𝑎𝑛𝑥 Everything will do as
in-between well!
will also
contain a
term
12C
Practice Questions
Questions
1. Exercise 12C
2. Worksheet B Differentiation Q1 & Q3

Answers
3. Exercise 12C
4. Worksheet B Differentiation Q1 & Q3
 Teachings for
ercise 12D and 1
 Differentiation
You can differentiate a Find when
function with several terms
by differentiating each term
separately. y x 2  6 x  4 Differentiate
each term
separately.
If you have several terms,
differentiate them all separately. A number on
its own
dy
 You should do any re-writing
2x  6 disappears

you need to before differentiating

dx
anything…

12D/E
 Differentiation
You can differentiate a Find when
function with several terms
by differentiating each term
separately. y x 2  6 x  4

If you have several terms,

differentiate them all separately.
1 0
¿−6 𝑥 Multiply by ¿−4 𝑥 Multiply by
 You should do any re-writing power, reduce power, reduce
power by 1
you need to before differentiating ¿−6 𝑥
0
¿0 power by 1

anything… x0 = 1
¿−6

So terms that are just a

number will cancel out!

12D/E
 Differentiation
You can differentiate a Find the gradient of the curve
function with several terms
by differentiating each term when
separately.

3 2
If you have several terms, 𝑦 =𝑥 + 𝑥
differentiate them all separately. Differentiate each term
to find the gradient
𝑑𝑦
 You should do any re-writing 𝑑𝑥
=¿
3 𝑥+2
2
𝑥 function

you need to before differentiating

anything… Sub in x = 2
2
¿3 (2) +2 (2)
Calculate
¿ 16

12D/E
 Differentiation
You can differentiate a Find the gradient of the curve
function with several terms at the point
by differentiating each term
separately.
1
1 2
If you have several terms,
𝑦 = 𝑥 2 +4 𝑥
3
differentiate them all separately. Differentiate each term
to find the gradient
𝑑𝑦 1 − 12
=¿ 𝑥 + 8 𝑥 function
 You should do any re-writing 𝑑𝑥 6
you need to before differentiating 1 Sub in x = 1
anything… 1 −2
¿ (1)
6
+8(1)
Calculate
1
¿8
6

12D/E
 Differentiation
Find when
You can differentiate a
function with several terms
by differentiating each term 1
separately. 𝑦=
4 √𝑥 We need to rewrite this first –
you can think of it as being 2
1 1 fractions multiplied together
If you have several terms, 𝑦= ×
differentiate them all separately. 4 √𝑥
Group together
1
1 −
2
 You should do any re-writing 𝑦= 𝑥
4
you need to before differentiating
Differentiate
anything… 𝑑𝑦 1 −
3
=¿
− 𝑥 2
𝑑𝑥 8 Think of them as
3 2 terms multiplied
1 −
¿− ×𝑥 2
8
Rewrite the
1 1 second
¿− ×
8 (√ 𝑥 )
3
Group
1 together
¿− 3 again
8 ( √𝑥 ) 12D/E
 Differentiation
Find the gradient of the curve at the
You can differentiate a
function with several terms point (2,0)
by differentiating each term
separately. 𝑥 −2
𝑦= 2
𝑥 This can be written as 2 separate
If you have several terms, fractions with the same denominator
𝑥 2
differentiate them all separately. 𝑦= 2
− 2
𝑥 𝑥
Rewrite for differentiation
−1 −2
 You should do any re-writing 𝑦 =𝑥 − 2 𝑥
you need to before differentiating Differentiate to find
anything… 𝑑𝑦 −2 −3
the gradient function
=¿
− 𝑥 + 4 𝑥
𝑑𝑥 Sub in x =
−2 −3 2
¿−(2) + 4 (2)
Calculat
1
¿ e
4

12D/E
Practice Questions
Questions
1. Exercise 12D & 12E
2. Worksheet B Differentiation Q6 & Q7

Answers
3. Exercise 12D & Exercise 12E
4. Worksheet B Differentiation Q6 & Q7
Teachings for
Exercise 12F
 Differentiation
You can use the derivative to find
the equations of tangents and
normal to a curve at a given
point.
Norm
al
The tangent is a straight line that
intersects the curve at on point only.

Curv
 The gradient of the tangent is the e
same as the gradient of the curve at
the point given (so you can
differentiate to get it) Tangent

The normal is a straight line

perpendicular to the tangent where it
touches the curve.

12F
 Differentiation
You can use the derivative to find y x3  3x 2  2 x  1 Differentiate to
the equations of tangents and get the gradient
normal to a curve at a given dy function
point. 3x 2  6 x  2 Substitute the x
dx
value in to find
2 the gradient
Find the equation of the tangent to ¿ 3 ( 3 ) − 6 ( 3) + 2
the curve y = x3 – 3x2 + 2x - 1, at the The gradient at
point (3,5). (3,5) is 11
¿ 11

So we need the gradient of the Use the formula for a straight line!
tangent. It will be the same as the
gradient of the curve at the point Substitute the
given (x = 3)
y  y1 m( x  x1 ) co-ordinate and
gradient in
y  5 11( x  3)
Expand bracket
y  5 11x  33
Add 5
Tangen y 11x  28
t

12F
 Differentiation
You can use the derivative to find
the equations of tangents and y 8  3 x
normal to a curve at a given Rewrite
1
point.
y 8  3 x 2

Differentiate
Find the equation of the normal to the dy 3  12
curve y = 8 - 3√x at the point where x  x
= 4. dx 2 Rewrite for
𝑑𝑦 3 1 substitution
=− ×
Start by finding the gradient of the 𝑑𝑥 2 √𝑥
curve at that point.
Sub in x = 4
3 1
Gradient = -3/4 (this is of the tangent) ¿− ×
2 √4
The Gradient
The Normal is perpendicular to the 3 where x = 4 is -
tangent ¿− 3
/4
4
Gradient of the Normal = 4/3

12F
 Differentiation
You can use the derivative to find
the equations of tangents and y 8  3 x
normal to a curve at a given Substitute in x =
point. 4
y 8  3 4
3 times 2 = 6!
Find the equation of the normal to the y 2
curve y = 8 - 3√x at the point where x
= 4.
Use the formula for a straight line!

Gradient of the Normal = 4/3 y  y1 m( x  x1 ) Substitute the

co-ordinate and
4 gradient in
Now we need the co-ordinates at that y  2  ( x  4)
point. We already have x = 4.
3 Multiply by 3

3 y  6 4( x  4)
Expand bracket
Co-ordinates at the intersection = 3 y  6 4 x  16
(4,2)
Rearrange
3 y  4 x  10 0

12F
 To find the equation of a
tangent/ normal to a curve

- Step 1: You may be given the x

coordinate in the question, you
need to find the corresponding y
coordinate, call these and

- Step 2: Find the gradient by

differentiating

- Step 3: Tangent gradient does

not change, normal gradient is
the negative reciprocal

- Step 4: Plug into the equation of

a line
Practice Questions
Questions
1. Exercise 12F
2. Worksheet C Gradients, tangents, normals
and rates of change Q9, Q10, Q11
Answers
3. Exercise 12F
4. Worksheet C Gradients, tangents, normals and rat
es of change Q9, Q10, Q11
Teachings for
Exercise 12G
 Differentiation
You can use the derivative to y
determine whether a function
is increasing or decreasing in
a given interval.
This function
is increasing x
An increasing function is one with for all values
a positive gradient. of x

A decreasing function is one with

a negative gradient. y

This function
is decreasing x
for all values
of x

12G
 Differentiation
You can use the derivative to y
determine whether a function
is increasing or decreasing in
a given interval.

x
An increasing function is one with
a positive gradient.

A decreasing function is one with

a negative gradient. This function is
decreasing for x > 0,
and increasing for x <
Some functions are increasing in 0
one interval and decreasing in
another. At x = 0, the gradient
is 0. This is known as a
stationary point.

12G
 Differentiation
You can use the derivative to Example Question
determine whether a function
is increasing or decreasing in Show that the function ;
a given interval.
f ( x)  x 3  24 x  3
is an increasing function.
An increasing function is one with
a positive gradient.
f ( x)  x 3  24 x  3 Differentiate to
get the gradient
A decreasing function is one with
a negative gradient. f '( x) 3x 2  24 function

Some functions are increasing in  Since x2 has to be positive, 3x2 +

one interval and decreasing in 24 will be as well
another.
 So the gradient will always be
positive, hence an increasing
You need to be able to work out function
ranges of values where a function
is increasing or decreasing..

12G
 Differentiation
You can use the derivative to Example Question
determine whether a function
is increasing or decreasing in Find the range of values where:
a given interval. f ( x) x 3  3x 2  9 x
is an decreasing function.
An increasing function is one with
a positive gradient. f ( x) x 3  3x 2  9 x Differentiate for the
gradient function

A decreasing function is one with f '( x) 3x 2  6x  9 We want the

a negative gradient. gradient to be
3x 2  6 x  9  0 below 0
Factorise

Some functions are increasing in 3( x 2  2 x  3)  0

Factorise again
one interval and decreasing in
another. 3( x  3)( x  1)  0 Roots are x = -3 and 1
BUT, we want values
x   3 OR x  1 that will make the
You need to be able to work out function negative (you
ranges of values where a function  3  x 1 can sketch the graph to
help with this)
is increasing or decreasing..

12G
 Differentiation
You can use the derivative to Example Question
determine whether a function
is increasing or decreasing in Find the range of values where:
a given interval. f ( x) x 3  3x 2  9 x
y is an decreasing function.
f(x)
f ( x) x 3  3x 2  9 x Differentiate for the
gradient function
f '( x) 3x 2  6x  9 We want the
gradient to be
3x 2  6 x  9  0 below 0
x Factorise
3( x 2  2 x  3)  0
Factorise again
3( x  3)( x  1)  0 Roots are x = -3 and 1

-3 1 x   3 OR x  1
BUT, we want values
that will make the
function negative (you

Decreasing Function range  3  x 1 can sketch the graph to

help with this)

12G
Practice Questions
Questions
1. Exercise 12G

Answers
2. Exercise 12G
Teachings for
Exercise 12H
 Differentiation
You can find the rate of
change of the gradient Exampl
function by differentiating a es
second time. dy d2y
Find and of the following:
dx dx 2

f ( x) or Original a ) y 3 x 5 
4
Equation x2

5 4
dy Differentiate 𝑦 =3 𝑥 +
f '( x) or once (first order
𝑥
2
Rewrite in the
dx derivative) 5 −2
form axn
𝑦 =3 𝑥 +4 𝑥
Differentiate
𝑑𝑦
=15 𝑥 4 − 8 𝑥− 3
2 𝑑𝑥
f ''( x) or d y Differentiate Differentiate
2
twice (second 𝑑 𝑦 again
dx 2 order derivative) 2
3
=60 𝑥 +24 𝑥
−4

𝑑𝑥

12H
 Differentiation
You can find the rate of
change of the gradient Exampl
function by differentiating a es
second time. Find and of the following:
1
𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) =3 √ 𝑥 +
f ( x) or Original
2𝑥
Equation
1
f ( x) 3 x 
2x Rewrite in the
dy Differentiate
f '( x) or once (first order
1
1 form axn
dx f ( x) 3x 2  x  1
derivative) 2 Differentiate
1
3  1
f '( x)  x 2  x  2
2 2
Differentiate
2
f ''( x) or d y again
3
Differentiate 3 

twice (second f ''( x)  x 2  x 3

dx 2 order derivative)
4

12H
Practice Questions
Questions
1. Exercise 12H
2. Worksheet B Differentiation Q8

Answers
3. Exercise 12H
4. Worksheet B Differentiation Q8
Teachings for
Exercise 12I
 Differentiation
You can determine the nature
of stationary points by
considering gradients. y

A point where f(x) stops increasing Local

and starts decreasing is called a maximum
maximum point

A point where f(x) stops decreasing

and starts increasing is called a x
minimum point Point of
inflexion
Local
A point of inflexion is where the minimum
gradient is locally a maximum or
minimum (the gradient does not
have to change from positive to
negative, for example)

These are all known as turning

points, and occur where f’(x) = 0
12I
 Differentiation
You can determine the nature of
stationary points by considering
gradients. y

To find the coordinates of these

points, you need to: Local
maximum

1) Differentiate f(x) to get the

Gradient Function
x
Point of
2) Solve f’(x) by setting it equal to 0 inflexion
(as this represents the gradient
being 0) Local
minimum

3) Substitute the value(s) of x into

the original equation to find the
corresponding y-coordinate

12I
 Differentiation
You can determine the nature of Example Question
stationary points by considering
gradients. Find the coordinates of the turning point on
the curve y = x4 – 32x, and state whether it
is a minimum or maximum.
To find the coordinates of these
points, you need to: y  x 4  32 x
Differentiate
dy
1) Differentiate f(x) to get the 4 x 3  32
Gradient Function dx Set equal to
0
4 x3  32 0
2) Solve f’(x) by setting it equal to 0 Add 32
(as this represents the gradient 3
being 0)
4 x 32
Divide by 4, then cube
x 2 root

3) Substitute the value(s) of x into

the original equation to find the y  x 4  32 x Sub 2 into the original
corresponding y-coordinate
y (2) 4  32(2) equation
The stationary point is at Work out the y-
(2, -48) y  48 coordinate

12I
 Differentiation
You can determine the nature of Example Question
stationary points by considering
gradients. Find the coordinates of the turning point on
the curve y = x4 – 32x, and state whether it
is a minimum or maximum.
To find the coordinates of these
points, you need to: y  x 4  32 x The stationary
point is at (2, -48)
dy
1) Differentiate f(x) to get the 4 x 3  32
Gradient Function dx
Differentiate again
d2y 2
2) Solve f’(x) by setting it equal to 0 12 x So the stationary
(as this represents the gradient dx 2 point is a MINIMUM
being 0) in this case!
12x 2
Sub in the x
3) Substitute the value(s) of x into coordinate
the original equation to find the 12(2) 2
corresponding y-coordinate Positive =
The rate of change of the rate of change is Minimum
positive
 This means the rate of change (gradient) is
48 Negative =
about to increase! Maximum
12I
 Differentiation
You can determine the nature of Example Question
stationary points by considering
gradients. Find the stationary points on the curve:
y = 2x3 – 15x2 + 24x + 6, and state
whether they are minima, maxima or points
To find the coordinates of these of inflexion
points, you need to: y 2 x 3  15 x 2  24 x  6
Differentiate
f '( x) 6 x  30x  24
2
1) Differentiate f(x) to get the Set equal to 0
Gradient Function 2
6 x  30 x  24 0
Factorise
2
2) Solve f’(x) by setting it equal to 0 6( x  5 x  4) 0
(as this represents the gradient Factorise again
being 0) 6( x  4)( x  1) 0
Write the
x 4 OR x 1 solutions
3) Substitute the value(s) of x into
the original equation to find the Substituting into the original formula will
corresponding y-coordinate give the following coordinates as stationary
points:
(1, 17) and (4, -10)

12I
 Differentiation Stationary points
at: (1, 17) and (4, -
10)
You can determine the nature of Example Question
stationary points by considering
gradients. Find the stationary points on the curve:
y = 2x3 – 15x2 + 24x + 6, and state
whether they are minima, maxima or points
To find the coordinates of these of inflexion
points, you need to: y 2 x 3  15 x 2  24 x  6
f '( x) 6 x 2  30x  24 Differentiate
1) Differentiate f(x) to get the
Gradient Function again
f ''( x) 12 x  30
2) Solve f’(x) by setting it equal to 0
(as this represents the gradient Sub in x = Sub in x =
being 0) 1 4
f ''( x) 12 x  30 f ''( x) 12 x  30
f ''(1) 12(1)  30 f ''(4) 12(4)  30
3) Substitute the value(s) of x into
the original equation to find the f ''(1)  18 f ''(4) 18
corresponding y-coordinate
So (1,17) is So (4,-10)
a Maximum is a
Minimum
12I
 Differentiation
You can determine the nature
of stationary points by
considering gradients.

Please note that if , the stationary

point could be a minimum,
maximum or a point of inflexion.

In this case, find the gradient just

before and just after the
coordinate, this will then tell you
the nature of the point.

12I
 You can find the coordinates
of all the points on a curve
which have the same gradient

- Step 1: Differentiate the curve y

- Step 2: Set to your gradient

and solve to find the x
coordinates where this equation
is satisfied

- Step 3: Find the corresponding y

values by plugging in your x
values into the equation of the
graph, NOT back into (common
error!)
Practice Questions
Questions
1. Exercise 12I
2. Worksheet A Stationary Points

Answers
3. Exercise 12I
4. Worksheet A Stationary Points
Teachings for
Exercise 12J
 Differentiation 𝑦
Gradient is
positive,
increases, then
Gradient is decreases
negative,
decreases, then
Function
You can use the features of a increases
function to sketch its
corresponding gradient Gradient is Gradient is
positive, but negative, and
function. decreasing decreasing
𝑥
 You need to consider the
gradient at various sections of
the graph…

 Dividing the graph up helps,

𝑦
and plot any stationary points Gradient
first Gradient is zero at Function
each of these
points

 After that, consider the way

the gradient changes… 𝑥

12J
 Differentiation 𝑦
Function
You can use the features of a Gradient is negative,
function to sketch its but increasing
corresponding gradient
function. (−10 , 0)
𝑥
𝑦 =− 2
The diagram shows the curve Gradient is positive,
with equation . It has an increases briefly, but then
asymptote at , a turning point at decreases towards 0
and it cuts the x-axis at (− 3 ,− 8)
𝑦
a) Sketch the graph of Gradient
Function

b) State the equation of the

asymptote of −3
𝑥
𝑦 =0
Gradient is zero at
this point

12J
Practice Questions
Questions
1. Exercise 12J

Answers
2. Exercise 12J
Teachings for
Exercise 12K
 Differentiation
You can use derivatives to
model many real-life
relationships.

Remember that you can think of

as

The differential therefore

represents the rate of change of ,
with respect to

It is possible to replace and with

real-life quantities that are
changing, in order to model the
situation mathematically

12K
 Differentiation
You can use derivatives to
model many real-life
relationships.

To the right is a water tank, and

the volume is constantly
changing over time

 If represents the volume of

water in litres, and represents
the time in seconds, then the
Volume is a function of time.

𝑉 = 𝑓 (𝑡 )
If the volume is a function of time, then the differential
will represent the rate at which the volume is changing
𝑑𝑉 over time..
= 𝑓 ′ (𝑡 )
𝑑𝑡

12K
 Differentiation
You can use derivatives to 4 3
model many real-life
𝑉= 𝜋𝑟
3 Differentiate to find the
relationships. rate of change of Volume
with respect to the radius
𝑑𝑉
=4 𝜋 𝑟 2
Given that the volume, , of an 𝑑𝑟
expanding sphere is related to its Sub in the value of r = 5
radius, , by the formula ,
find the rate of change of volume ¿ 4 𝜋 ( 5 )2
with respect to radius at the Calculate
instant when the radius is 5cm.
3
¿ 314 𝑐𝑚

So at the moment when the radius

of the expanding sphere is 5cm, the
Volume is increasing at 314cm3 per
cm.

12K
 Differentiation
You can use derivatives to
model many real-life
relationships. x
x
A large tank (shown) is to be made from y
54m2 of sheet metal. It has no top.
a) Show that the Volume of the tank will be 2
given by: 𝑆𝐴=2 𝑥 +3 𝑥𝑦 The Surface Area
2 3 is 54
𝑉 =18 𝑥 − 𝑥 2
54=2 𝑥 + 3 𝑥𝑦
3
Subtract 2x2
 With the information you have, you can 2
set up equations for the Volume and 54 − 2 𝑥 =3 𝑥𝑦
Surface Area of the tank…
2 Divide by 3x
𝑉 =𝑥 𝑦
2 2
𝑆𝐴=2 𝑥 +3 𝑥𝑦 54 − 2 𝑥
=𝑦
3𝑥
 We want a formula for the Volume in
terms of x only, so we will need to
eliminate y

 This can be done using the SA equation…

12K
 Differentiation
You can use derivatives to
model many real-life 2
relationships. x 𝑦 = 54 −2 𝑥
3𝑥
x
A large tank (shown) is to be made from y
54m2 of sheet metal. It has no top.
a) Show that the Volume of the tank will be 2
given by: 𝑉 =𝑥 𝑦
Replace y with the
2 3
( )
2 expression above
54 −2 𝑥
𝑉 =18 𝑥 − 𝑥 𝑉 =𝑥
2
3 3𝑥 Multiply the fraction
 With the information you have, you can 2 43 by x2
54 𝑥 − 2 𝑥
set up equations for the Volume and 𝑉=
Surface Area of the tank… 3𝑥 Divide all
2 2
𝑉 =𝑥 𝑦 𝑆𝐴=2 𝑥 +3 𝑥𝑦 54 𝑥 − 2 𝑥 3
terms by x
𝑉=
 We want a formula for the Volume in 3 Write as 2
terms of x only, so we will need to separate terms
2 3
eliminate y 𝑉 =18 𝑥 − 𝑥
3
 This can be done using the SA equation…
12K
 Differentiation
You can use derivatives to
model many real-life
relationships. x
x
A large tank (shown) is to be made from y
54m2 of sheet metal. It has no top. The Volume will be
maximised here (x
a) Show that the Volume of the tank will be
𝟐 𝟑 V has to be greater
given by: 𝑽 =𝟏𝟖 𝒙 − 𝒙
𝟑 than 0)
2 3
𝑉 =18 𝑥 − 𝑥
3

b) Find the Maximum volume of the tank

x
 So we want to find the value of x for
which the Volume is a maximum

 The graph to the right shows the equation

for the volume… The maximum Volume is at the stationary
point
 Differentiate the function and set it equal
to 0…  Hence, the gradient will equal 0
12K
 Differentiation
You can use derivatives to
model many real-life
relationships. x
x
A large tank (shown) is to be made from y
54m2 of sheet metal. It has no top.
2 3
a) Show that the Volume of the tank will be 𝑉 =18 𝑥 − 𝑥
given by:
3
Differentiate
2 3 𝑑𝑉 2
=18 − 2 𝑥
𝑉 =18 𝑥 − 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 Set the gradient
3
function equal to 0
0=18 − 2 𝑥 2
b) Find the Maximum volume of the tank Add 2x2
2
 Differentiate the function and set it equal 2 𝑥 =18
to 0… Divide by 2
2
 So the greatest Volume will occur when x
𝑥 =9
Square
= 3… 𝑥=± 3 root
x must be
𝑥=3 positive
12K
 Differentiation
You can use derivatives to
model many real-life
relationships. x
x
A large tank (shown) is to be made from y
54m2 of sheet metal. It has no top.
2 3
a) Show that the Volume of the tank will be 𝑉 =18 𝑥 − 𝑥
given by:
3
Let x = 3
2 3 2
𝑉 =18 𝑥 − 𝑥 𝑉 =18 (3) − (3)
3

3 3
Calculate V

b) Find the Maximum volume of the tank

𝑉 =36 𝑚3
 Differentiate the function and set it equal
to 0…

 So the greatest Volume will occur when x

= 3…

12K
Practice Questions
Questions
1. Exercise 12K
2. Worksheet B Optimisation

Answers
3. Exercise 12K
4. Worksheet B Optimisation
Mixed Exam Questions
Questions
1. Worksheet C - Further Differentiation
2. Worksheet D – Mixed Exam Style Questions

Answers
3. Worksheet C - Further Differentiation
4. Worksheet D – Mixed Exam Style Questions