Section 2.5: Basic Differentiation Properties

Constant Function Rule

If y = f(x) = C, then f'(x) = 0

Also, y' = 0 and dy/dx = 0.

Power Rule

The power rule states that if f(x) = xn, then f'(x) = nxn - 1.

Drag the slider to see the graph of the function f(x) = xn and its derivative as n changes.

Constant Multiple Property

If y = f(x) = ku(x), then f'(x) = ku'(x).

Also, y' = ku' and dy/dx = k du/dx.

Sum and Difference Property

If y = f(x) = u(x) ± v(x), then f'(x) = u'(x) ± v'(x)

Also, y' = u' ± v' and dy/dx = du/dx ± dv/dx.

n = 1

x = 2